Searching for sure footing after a trio of defeats and the longest scoreless streak at home in all competitions since debuting in 2018, the Los Angeles Football Club resembled its dominant self Wednesday.

But the Black & Gold’s troubles persisted with a third straight no-goal effort at BMO Stadium, ending a return to domestic action with a 0-0 tie against Atlanta United FC in a match that saw LAFC outshoot its opponent 22-4.

Hesitant to play with LAFC (7-1-5, 26 points), Atlanta (6-4-7, 25) absorbed pressure and relied on veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan to keep it in the game.

Nine saves by Guzan, the U.S. men’s national team keeper, including a few he knew nothing about, stymied L.A.. Especially MLS leading goal scorer Denis Bouanga, who terrorized Atlanta defenders but was unable to put his finishing touch on the match after putting four of his eight attempts on target.

LAFC captain Carlos Vela entered the match in the 59th minute, and continued to slump following an ineffectual CONCACAF Champions League final that concluded Sunday.

Vela earned a penalty kick attempt in the 70th minute. His first shot was denied by Guzan, but referee Joe Dickerson ruled that the American keeper left the goal line early. On his second attempt, Vela skied the ball over the crossbar.