Struggling Galaxy, Quakes set to renew Cali Clasico

Still looking to ride the momentum of a victory over their cross-town rival, the Los Angeles Galaxy will play host to their original in-state rival on Saturday in the latest version of the Cali Clasico.

The San Jose Earthquakes will face the Galaxy after each of the teams' most recent scheduled game was postponed on Wednesday as teams across the sports landscape took part in a social-justice movement.

It means the Galaxy (1-3-2, five points) are still waiting to take the field after their surprising 2-0 victory last weekend over Los Angeles FC. The Galaxy struggled so much at the start of the season that not only was it their first victory of the season, they still are in last place in the Western Conference.

"The talent is here, so many good players," said Galaxy forward Ethan Zubak, who scored his first career MLS goal in the victory over LAFC. "We just needed something to kick us into gear."

Galaxy forward Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez is not expected to play Saturday as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

The Earthquakes (2-1-2, eight points) were due to play Wednesday against the Portland Timbers, the MLS is Back Tournament champion.

It will also be San Jose's first game since midfielder Magnus Eriksson transferred back to his former cub in Sweden -- Djurgardens IF. Eriksson had 13 goals and 14 assists in 69 matches (66 starts) in two-plus seasons with San Jose.

"Maybe over time, this change can even produce a slightly different look and feel when we attack," Earthquakes general manager Jesse Fioranelli said. "Secondly, the group is compact and has proven to be able to take adjustments head on."

Forwards Chris Wondolowski and Andy Rios along with defender Oswaldo Alanis share the team lead with two goals.

San Jose's most recent game was Aug. 1 when it lost 4-1 to Minnesota United FC in the quarterfinals of the MLS is Back Tournament.

The Galaxy and Earthquakes have played 86 all-time games against each other in the California Clasico, with the Galaxy holding a 41-29-16 advantage. They include matchups in the MLS regular season, the playoffs, MLS Cup and the U.S. Open Cup.

San Jose won both meetings last season by a combined 6-1 score. Los Angeles has won just once in the past six meetings.

--Field Level Media