The opening game of the season and both teams are missing several veterans.

As expected, the Galaxy are without central defender Gregg Berhalter (left knee soreness), striker Alan Gordon (left knee bruise), Jovan Kirovski (right knee sprain) and Clint Mathis (left knee surgery).

Injured David Beckham, I’m told, is also in the house, on crutches and wearing a knit cap.

So the Galaxy give MLS debuts to two of three young Brazilians on the roster – Leonardo in central defense in place of Berhalter and Juninho in the depleted midfield.

Coach Bruce Arena is already modifying his original plan of having Mike Magee partner Edson Buddle in attack; Magee moves back to midfield and Donovan will go up front with Buddle.

Sean Franklin is back at right back.

The complete Galaxy XI (4-4-2): Donovan Ricketts, Sean Franklin, Omar Gonzalez, Leonardo, Todd Dunivant, Mike Magee, Dema Kovalenko, Juninho, Eddie Lewis, Edson Buddle, Landon Donovan.

Bench options include: Chris Birchall, Chris Klein and A.J.DeLaGarza, but just one out and out striker – young Tristan Bowen of Van Nuys.

The Revs are without the injured Shalrie Joseph, Taylor Twellman and goalkeeper Matt Reis, while Steve Ralson, of course, is gone to the USL.

The Revolution lineup (4-4-2): Preston Burpo, Kevin Alston, Cory Gibbs, Emmanuel Osei, Seth Sinovic, Sainey Naissi, Pat Phelan, Joseph Niouky, Chris Tierney, Kheli Dube, Zack Schilawski.

Updated: Nice touch – Donovan just went over before kickoff and acknowledged the Riot Squad, who were displaying a large “Welcome Home Landon” sign.