Reigning US Open Cup holders LAFC meanwhile boast former EPL stars Hugo Lloris and striker Olivier Giroud amongst their lineup. Steve Cherundolo's team had to make it through a playoff against Mexican outfit Club America to reach the Club World Cup and come into today's game on an unbeaten run of 10 games.

The swathes of empty seats during the FIFA Club World Cup match between Chelsea and Los Angeles FC have been criticised by fans, who blamed the governing body for ‘screwing up’ the tournament.

On the day of “No Kings” protests around the country, Angel City fans chose to hold a silent protest during the team’s 2-1 loss against the North Carolina Courage.

Angel City FC soccer players and club investor Becky G made strong statements amid anti-ICE riots that have plagued parts of the city over the last week.

Angel City, the NWSL team based in Los Angeles, distributed T-shirts to fans on Saturday that proclaimed "Immigrant City Football Club."