Sporting KC tasked with solving injury, suspension problems

Injuries and suspensions may well define the next matchup between fierce Western Conference rivals RSL and SKC. The Claret and Cobalt are at significantly less than full strength because of injuries and suspensions. Let's take a look at the opposing team's injuries.

Matt Besler missed playing for the USMNT because of a concussion which he suffered while training with the national team, and it looks like he will sit out of Saturday's match as well. Ike Opara should be ready to step in at center back.

Justin Mapp is still dealing with turf toe, and is listed as out on MLSSoccer.com. He has yet to make an appearance this season after making the move from Montreal in the offseason. When he is healthy again, it will be interesting to see where he fits in the ranks of the SKC wingers.

It looks like RSL's favorite central midfielder Benny Feilhaber will be back on the pitch, ready to make controversial statements and impressive plays. He missed last match with an abdominal strain. The other central midfielder, Paulo Nagamura, is also reported to be out for Saturday with a calf strain. It looks like Brad Davis will continue to on the right side of the center of the 4-3-3.

The league suspended Roger Espinoza for a reckless tackle on Toronto's Delgado. He will be missing the match also, making SKC a little thin in midfield.

With a few key players out, the matchup against SKC will be an interesting one to watch. Hopefully RSL can play a solid game and steal some points in The Cauldron.