Tag: LAFC betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

MLS playoffs: Philadelphia Union vs. LAFC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Philadelphia Union vs. LAFC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

No. 1 Philadelphia Union visits Banc of California Stadium to take on No. 1 LAFC in the MLS Cup Final. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Philadelphia Union vs. LAFC odds, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC added several former international superstars in the middle of the season to a roster that was already the best in the West. They had one of the best seasons in MLS history, totaling 67 points in 34 games.

To get to this point, LAFC had to take down in-state rival LA Galaxy and No. 2-seeded Austin FC, respectively winning 3-2 and 3-0. F Cristian Arango had a team-high 16 and F Carlos Vela led the team in goals and assists with a combined 21.

The Union, on the other hand, will be bringing their league-best defense to the West Coast. They allowed just 1 goal in their 2 playoff games and just 26 in 34 games this season. That’s not to say they don’t have an attack though.

Philadelphia M Daniel Gazdag was tied with Austin M Sebastian Driussi for the 2nd-most goals in the league. The Union beat FC Cincinnati 1-0 in the second round and NYCFC 3-1 in the second round.

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Philadelphia Union vs. LAFC odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Philadelphia +310 (bet $100 to win $310) | LAFC -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Draw +290
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -135 | U: +107)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Prediction

LAFC 1, Philadelphia Union 1

Moneyline (ML)

LEAN DRAW (+290).

Philadelphia is the real deal, and its ability to defend at a high level should be on display Saturday afternoon. It led the league in clean sheets, save rate and interceptions.

The Union allowed just 1 goal through 180 minutes to 2 clubs that combined for 121 in the regular season.  The Union had more than double their opponents expected goals in both games as well.

LAFC has the best attack in the MLS, but it did struggle early against Austin and didn’t truly pull away from the Galaxy either. The superstar additions, especially Bale, hasn’t added much fire.

I would trust in GK Andre Blake to keep this game close, and a draw, at this value, is a good play.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (+107).

The Union had the best defense in the MLS, and as by the stats they finished first in above, they have a side that isn’t going to allow many opportunities. Similarly, LAFC allowed the fewest shots against.

LAFC allowed just 0.7 expected goals through 2 games while Philadelphia allowed just 1.4.

Oddly enough, both teams also were in the bottom half of the league in passing accuracy rate, so with the stiff defense, neither side may be able to truly string together good possessions.

Considering it all, I would back the UNDER 2.5 (+107), especially with the value being given here.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Want action on this contest or any other soccer matches? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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MLS playoffs: Austin FC vs. LAFC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Austin FC vs. LAFC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

No. 2 Austin FC visits Banc of California Stadium to take on No. 1 LAFC in the MLS Western Conference final. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (ESPN3). Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Austin FC vs. LAFC odds, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC added several former international superstars in the middle of the season to a roster that was already the best in the West. They had one of the best seasons in MLS history, totaling 67 points in 34 games.

Former Real Madrid F Gareth Bale was a big-time addition. He had 2 goals. F Cristian Arango had a team-high 16 and F Carlos Vela led the team in goals and assists with a combined 21.

On the other hand, Austin FC finished 12th of just 13 teams in the West last season and crushed preseason expectations, scoring 65 goals, the 2nd-most in the conference.

Austin was led by M Sebastian Driussi, who scored 22 goals on the season. His 22 was tied with Philadelphia’s M Daniel Gazdag for the 2nd-most in the league.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

Austin FC vs. LAFC odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 11:32 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Austin FC +400 (bet $100 to win $400) | LAFC -200 (bet $200 to win $100) | Draw +380
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Prediction

LAFC 2, Austin FC 1

Moneyline (ML)

PASS.

While I certainly do not hate a draw, especially at +380, betting against this LAFC team is not wise. They clearly have the most talent in the MLS and will be at home. At -200, their moneyline value just isn’t worth the risk.

Austin actually beat LAFC in both meetings this season, a 2-1 win on the road and a 4-1 win at home. I don’t expect history to be repeated and would avoid any play other than potentially a small unit on the draw.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 3.5 (-130).

You don’t sit within the top 2 in a highly competitive conference without high-level defending, and although the offensive weapons will highlight analysis, both teams are strong defensively.

Both teams sit in the top half of the league in save percentage, and LAFC ranked No. 1 in shots against.

Had it not been for a stoppage-time penalty that helped them advance, Austin would have had this Under hit in 9 straight games. It allowed just 2.1 expected goals against in its 2 playoff games as well.

LAFC won 3-2 over the Galaxy in its lone playoff game, but its opponent has just .4 expected goals. It has gone Under this total in 6 of its last 8.

With this expected to be a highly competitive battle, goals should be difficult to come by as is typical with playoff action. Bet the Under 3.5 (-130) despite the juice.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Want action on this contest or any other soccer matches? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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MLS playoffs: LAFC vs. LA Galaxy odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s LAFC vs. LA Galaxy Western Conference semifinal odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LAFC welcomes the LA Galaxy to Banc of California Stadium Thursday in 1 of the 2 Western Conference semifinals. Kickoff is set for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the LAFC vs. LA Galaxy odds, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC received the only 1st-round bye in the West, finishing the season with  21 wins in 34 matches. The midseason additions of former international superstars headlined the LAFC season.

Fans will likely see Wales F Gareth Bale and Italian D Giorgio Chiellini for the full 90 minutes. F Carlos Vela will also play an impactful role and led the team in goals and assists with a combined 21.

The LA Galaxy got through the 1st round by beating the No. 5-seeded Nashville SC at home. The Galaxy were the No. 4 seed after winning 14 regular season matches.

F Javier Hernández led the team in goals this season with 18. Hernandez and F Dejan Joveljić are the only players on the Galaxy team who have more than 4 goals on the season.

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LAFC vs. LA Galaxy odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:48 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: LAFC -140 (bet $140 to win $100) | LA Galaxy +310 (bet $100 to win $310) | Draw +310
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +122 | U: -155)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Prediction

LAFC 2, LA Galaxy 1

Moneyline (ML)

BET LAFC (-140).

LAFC is the most talented team in the MLS. They have veteran talent with Vela and Bale and then leadership in the back with Chiellini.

The home side will also have more versatility in its attack with 5 players having scored 6 or more goals this season. On top of that advantage, LAFC was 13-2-2 at home this season.

The Galaxy lost 7 of 17 road games as well as dropping 5 of their last 10 on the road. The Galaxy don’t have the firepower to hang with LAFC and should struggle as they’ll be less rested as well.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN UNDER 3.5 (-155).

LAFC has allowed 38 goals on the season, the 2nd-fewest in the West. The Galaxy’s attack also wasn’t clicking well against Nashville as neither team had more than 1 expected goal and LA won just 1-0.

LAFC had the fewest shots against in the regular season as well, so their defense had held strong for most of the season. With playoff games already difficult to net goals in, I expect a low-scoring battle on Thursday evening.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Want action on this contest or any other soccer matches? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Austin FC vs. LAFC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Austin FC vs. LAFC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

Austin FC (14 wins, 6 losses, 6 draws) welcomes LAFC (18-5-3) Friday to Q2 Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we preview the Austin FC vs. LAFC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

Austin FC has been outstanding this season and has posted a 6-2-4 record at home this season. Austin is 2-1-1 in its last 4 home games and has scored 3 or more goals in all 4.

Austin has scored 55 goals on the season, the exact same as LAFC. However, its defense hasn’t quite been as good, allowing 10 more goals (36 vs. 26). Austin is led by F Sebastián Driussi with 18 goals on the season.

LAFC, which might have the best roster in MLS history, added F Gareth Bale in the middle of the season to further bolster their lineup. They also brought in former Italian star D Giorgio Chiellini.

Los Angeles is led in scoring by F Cristian Arango with 12 goals. It also has F Carlos Vela, a 2022 All-Star who has 8 goals and 7 assists.

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Austin FC vs. LAFC odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:21 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Austin FC +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | LAFC +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Draw +285
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +115 | U: -145)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

LAFC 2, Austin FC 1

Money line (ML)

BET LAFC (+130).

LAFC lost the 1st time around vs. Austin FC at home. They were defeated 2-1 on May 18, but there are a few reasons to love them in this situation, and one is that they actually did dominate that game.

LAFC had 2.4 expected goals in that match which compares favorably to Austin’s 1.0. Also, Austin is starting to show some flaws, having gone 2-1-2 in its last 5.

LAFC has had more expected goals than their opponent in 9 of 12 road matches and has also won 3 of its last 4. They are a complete side that can both defend and attack with pace.

Austin is a solid, capable side, but its defense hasn’t been there lately. Austin has given up 16 goals in its last 7 home matches. LAFC may be able to shred Austin’s backline.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN UNDER 3.5 (-145).

LAFC is a score-heavy side, as is Austin. Most indications are this should be a high-scoring match, but one would have said the same for LAFC’s 1-0 win over D.C. United or a 2-1 win over San Jose. LAFC has gone under this total in 5 of their last 7. Austin has gone under in 3 of its last 6.

Given who will take the pitch and the high-profile nature surrounding this match, which will be televised on ESPN, I would certainly just lean to the Under 3.5 (-145).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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LAFC vs. D.C. United odds, picks and MLS predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s LAFC vs. D.C. United odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LAFC (17 wins, 4 losses, 3 draws) welcomes D.C. United (6-14-4) to Banc of California Stadium Tuesday. Kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we preview the LAFC vs. D.C. United odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC is, by far, the best team in the league and destroyed Charlotte FC at home Saturday. The home side won that game 5-0 and continued its dominance at Banc of California. LAFC is 10-1-2 at home.

LAFC is captained by F Carlos Vela, who has 8 goals and 7 assists. F Cristian Arango leads the team with 12 goals. International stars F Gareth Bale and D Giorgio Chiellini have added a new dimension to this already-stacked roster.

D.C. United sits last in the Eastern Conference. United has scored 28 goals and allowed 48, so it doesn’t have a great offense (like FC Cincinnati) nor a great defense (like Philadelphia).

United could be in store for a world of pain as it struggles on the road – D.C. is 2-8-1 away from home. F Taxiarchis Fountas leads United in scoring with 11 goals.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

LAFC vs. D.C. United odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 11:41 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: LAFC -370 (bet $370 to win $100) | D.C. United +520 (bet $100 to win $520) | Draw +900
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

LAFC 4, D.C. United 1

Money line (ML)

PASS.

If you want to bet on LAFC, you might as well look toward the total as this should be a blowout. Just straight up betting LAFC at -370 doesn’t make much sense.

Let’s not waste anyone’s time and just look below for any actual value.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 3.5 (+105).

If you thought Saturday was ugly for LAFC’s opponent – with the 5-0 shutout – LAFC now hosts the worst defense in the MLS.

United allows 2 goals per game and will be facing an LAFC side that’s averaging 3 goals per game in their last 6 matches and have scored at least 4 goals in 2 straight games.

United also averages over a goal per game this season, so the thought is that it should be able to generate some offense as well. Nonetheless, this game should be strictly about LAFC’s dominance.

LAFC has the most shots on goal (141 on-target scoring attempts) in the MLS and the 5th-highest shooting percentage (38.1%). Against a team like United, it should get ugly early on. Also, both teams are on short rest, so lazy, tired legs could be a factor as well.

Given it hasn’t let up when getting out to an early lead recently, expect LAFC to pile it on the league’s worst defense.

With that in mind, my favorite play in this match is OVER 3.5 (+105).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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LAFC vs. Charlotte FC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s LAFC vs. Charlotte FC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LAFC (16 wins, 4 losses, 3 draws) welcomes Charlotte FC (9-13-2) to Banc of California Stadium Saturday. Kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the LAFC vs. Charlotte FC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC is the best team in the MLS and are 6 points ahead of the second-place Austin FC. With the midseason addition of European stars F Gareth Bale and D Giorgio Chiellini, LAFC has gotten that much stronger.

LAFC is led in scoring by star F Cristian Arango, who has 11 goals, but the offense is typically run through F Carlos Vela, who has 7 goals and 7 assists on the season.

As for Charlotte FC, they’ll be faced with a tough task, traveling out West to take on a surging LAFC. Charlotte has fallen outside of playoff position and is just 1-9-2 on the road this season.

In its first season in the MLS, Charlotte has actually impressed, having won 8 of 12 at home. It is led by FKarol Świderski, who has 7 goals on the season, his first in the MLS.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

LAFC vs. Charlotte FC odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: LAFC -270 (bet $270 to win $100) | Charlotte FC +430 (bet $100 to win $430) | Draw +670
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +120 | U: -150)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

LAFC 3, Charlotte FC 1

Money line (ML)

AVOID.

LAFC is just too good to bet against, and Charlotte has been awful on the road.

Betting a -270 favorite, especially in soccer, just isn’t typically a smart play. LAFC has won 5 straight and 7 of its last 8. It has also won 5 straight at home.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 3.5 (+120).

LAFC has the most clinical attack in the MLS, and Vela showed that as he scored the first goal within the first 5 minutes of the MLS All-Star Game in Minneapolis Wednesday.

LAFC has scored at least 2 goals in 5 straight games and has topped 2 in 2 of its last 5. The home side has topped 3.5 goals in 2 of their last 3 games at Banc of California Stadium.

As for Charlotte, it has had some success on the road. While the results haven’t necessarily been there, it has scored in 6 of its last 7 road matches and has scored at least 2 in 2 of its last 3. Charlotte FC’s last 2 road matches have gone over this total.

Put it all together, and considering how good LAFC is, I’d bet on a goal-fest Saturday evening.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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LAFC vs. Club America odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s LAFC vs. Club America odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LAFC welcomes Club America to SoFi Stadium Wednesday. The premier Leagues Cup battle will commence at 11:15 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the LAFC vs. Club America odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Leagues Cup is a new competition between Liga MX (the Mexican top league) and MLS (the top United States league). This will be a monthlong tournament that kicks off in 2023.

Club America was one of the 5 Mexican clubs chosen to play in these preliminary matches. Club America has not kicked off the season strong, winning just 1 of its first 5 matches and posting a 1-3-1 record.

LAFC is coming into this contest having recently acquired international stars F Gareth Bale and D Giorgio Chiellini, both of whom have already seen some minutes with the Western Conference’s top side.

LAFC is 15-4-3 this season and has been dominant at home with a 9-1-2 record. While not technically at home in this battle, it should feel like it.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

LAFC vs. Club America odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:41 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: LAFC -109 (bet $109 to win $100) | Club America +245 (bet $100 to win $245) | Draw +320
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

LAFC 3, Club America 1

Money line (ML)

BET LAFC (-109).

I would think it is safe to assume that LAFC’s top stars will get some run, and although Bale may get not 90 minutes, LAFC is a side that’s as deep as arguably any team in MLS history.

F Cristian Arango has 9 goals this season and has been one of the league’s hottest players, having scored in 7 of his last 9 appearances. He’s one of numerous attacking threats.

As for Club America, it has scored just 5 goals and allowed 9 through 5 matches with 29-year-old F Henry Martín, who scored 2 in its last match, as America’s most lethal attacker.

Considering LAFC also has one of the best defenses in the MLS, expect it to be able to limit Martin and company. Virtually at home, LAFC to win is a strong play.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (-130).

LAFC is averaging 2 goals per game and allowing just over 1.

In the same respect, Club America, in a small sample size, is scoring 1 per game and giving up 1.8. America gave up a game-losing goal when it was up a player.

Its defense hasn’t been impressive so far this season. Similarly, LAFC has given up a goal in 9 of 12 home matches. It would be shocking to see LAFC hold an opponent of such a different style scoreless.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Sporting Kansas City vs. LAFC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Sporting Kansas City vs. LAFC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

Sporting Kansas City (5 wins, 12 losses, 5 draws) will welcome LAFC (13-4-3) to Children’s Mercy Park Saturday. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Sporting Kansas City vs. LAFC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC, with the recent debut of F Gareth Bale and D Giorgio Chiellini, are at full strength and could be the best team in MLS history. F Cristian Arango leads the team in scoring with 8 goals on the season.

They’ve won 6 of their last 8 matches but are just 1-1-1 on the road over that stretch. LAFC has had fewer expected goals in 2 of its last 3 matches as well.

Sporting KC has been among the conference’s disappointments. They sit in 14th place. Sporting has lost 5 of their last 8 matches and have lost 3 straight at home.

Through 60 combined matches played, F Johnny Russell and F Dániel Sallói combined for 31 goals a season ago. Those numbers are at 38 and 10 so far this season, so Sporting’s attack hasn’t been nearly as dominant.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

Sporting Kansas City vs. LAFC odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated 11:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Sporting KC +245 (bet $100 to win $245) | LAFC +107 (bet $100 to win $107) | Draw +260
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -125 | U: +100)

[tipico]

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Prediction

LAFC 3, Sporting KC 1

Money line (ML)

BET LAFC +107.

The best team against the worst team in the West for a plus-money value is a play I’ll take every time. While LAFC’s road play is concerning, the same can be said for Sporting at home.

Sporting also has a US Open Cup semifinal match Wednesday in the back of its mind, so who knows how it will look personnel-wise.

Sporting has scored a league-low 19 goals and allowed 38. On the other hand, LAFC has the most potent attack in the MLS and should be able to abuse a weak backline.

Put it all together, and I’ll take LAFC +107 to win outright.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (-125).

LAFC and its opponent has combined for under 2.5 expected goals just 3 times this season. That means it has been expected to be at or top this total in 17 matches.

Similarly, Sporting has topped this total in 5 of its last 7 and has scored 3 goals in its last 3 games, which is a positive sign for a side with significant scoring trouble.

LAFC won 3-1 when these teams met in March. There were a combined 25 shots in that match. With Bale in the lineup and LAFC having topped 2.5 in 12 of 20, the OVER 2.5 (-125) seems like a strong play.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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LAFC vs. New York Red Bulls odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s LAFC vs. New York Red Bulls odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LAFC (9 wins, 3 losses, 3 draws) welcomes the New York Red Bulls (7-4-5) to Banc of California Stadium Sunday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the LAFC vs. New York Red Bulls odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

LAFC sits atop the Western Conference and is looking to continue its trend as one of the premier clubs in the league, having announced the signing of former Real Madrid superstar F Gareth Bale.

Bale will not be available against the Red Bulls, but LAFC shouldn’t be concerned as it is 5-1-2 at home this season. It’s led by F Carlos Vela, who has 6 goals on the season. LAFC has won 2 of its last 3.

As for the Red Bulls, they sit second in the Eastern Conference with 26 points, 2 behind NYCFC. While scoring is how you win the game, New York has been dominant on the defensive end, allowing just 17 goals in 16 games.

N.Y. is led by 25-year-old Scottish F Lewis Morgan with 7 goals. New York has lost its last 2 road matches, both by 2-0, to newcomer Charlotte FC and Inter Miami.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

LAFC vs. New York Red Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:34 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: LAFC -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | New York Red Bulls +295 (bet $100 to win $295) | Draw +265
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

[tipico]

Prediction

LAFC 1, New York Red Bulls 0

Money line (ML)

LEAN LAFC -110.

LAFC has amassed a level of talent that one just should not bet against. Led by Vela, LAFC also has M Kellyn Acosta who has 13 starts and has the 2nd-most minutes of any non-keeper.

LAFC has won 5 of 8 home matches and has had more expected goals than its opponent in all 8, which suggests that its a side that should be coming out on top more often than not.

New York started the season off strong away from home with 5 wins and a draw in 6 matches. But, they’ve since lost 2 road games, both to teams that are outside the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.

Couple LAFC’s talent with their dominance at home along with the recent weaknesses New York has shown, and even at this value, I’d lean to LAFC.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (+100).

While LAFC has some attacking prowess, both teams are elite defensively.

New York’s 17 goals allowed rank tied for the 3rd-fewest in the conference. Although the West is a more defense-heavy conference, LAFC’s 17 goals allowed rank third as well.

LAFC has gone under this total in 4 of its last 7. The Red Bulls can 1-up that as they’ve gone under it in 5 of their last 7. They both rank in the top-6 clubs in shots against as well.

They’re well-coached, well-rounded clubs that should have a game plan set to counter the others’ strengths. Combine it all, and the UNDER 2.5 (+100) is my favorite play in the match.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Columbus Crew vs. LAFC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Columbus Crew vs. LAFC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The Columbus Crew (3 wins, 4 losses, 4 draws) welcome LAFC (7-3-2) to Lower.com Field Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Columbus Crew vs. LAFC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Crew have had a relatively disappointing season. Although early in the season, they are outside of playoff position. However, Columbus has won 3 of its 5 games at home.

The Crew are led by 29-year-old M Lucas Zelarayán. Zelarayan was an All-Star midfielder a season ago. Columbus is coming off a 2-0 road loss to NYCFC last weekend.

LAFC is led by F Carlos Vela the last few seasons. While that’s true again, it has struggled as of late, losing at home to Austin FC 2-1. LAFC has lost two straight and is 0-2-1 in the last 3.

LAFC has been decent on the road for a club of its caliber, posting a 3-2-0 record. However, LAFC had more expected goals in all but one road game this season.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Columbus Crew vs. LAFC odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Columbus +117 (bet $100 to win $117) | LAFC +225 (bet $100 to win $225) | Draw +255
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -145 | U: +120)

[tipico]

Prediction

LAFC 2, Columbus 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN LAFC +225.

LAFC hasn’t played well as of late, but it’s an ultra-talented club, some of which are still figuring out how to play with each other.

Veteran M Kellyn Acosta will likely accrue another start and should impact the game. He should be able to neutralize the possession-dominating Zelarayán.

Considering Columbus has scored 5 goals in its last 7 matches and were held scoreless in 5 of those, I’m not sold they’ll be able to thrive against the Western Conference’s best and deepest club.

LAFC is one of four teams with a double-digit goal differential, and it’s still positive even when just considering road matches. If I can ever get LAFC to win for more than double my wager, I’ll take it.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (-125).

If there’s something LAFC likes to do, it is score. They have had 24 goals in 12 games, averaging 2 goals per game. Columbus is averaging 1.36 goals per game and has had 5 multi-goal games as well.

It has scored 2 or more in 3 of its 5 home matches. Columbus has had 3 goals scored in 2 of its last 3 matches while 3 or more have been scored in 7 of LAFC’s last 9.

With all the star power from the mix of Acosta, Vela and Zelarayan, I expect goals to be scored.

Both defenses allow over a goal per game as well. They both also rank in the bottom half of the league in interceptions, so attacks may be able to find steam early and often.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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