LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

LA Galaxy (9 wins, 11 losses, 3 draws) welcomes the Vancouver Whitecaps (8-10-6) to Dignity Health Sports Park Saturday. Kickoff is set for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Galaxy, after starting off the season on the right foot, have hit a cold streak in which they’ve dropped out of playoff position. LA has lost 5 of its last 6, a brutal stretch in which its most recent loss was a 4-2 defeat to the last-place Sporting KC.

The Galaxy are only 3 points out of playoff position and are led by star F Javier Hernandez, who has 9 goals on the season.

As for Vancouver, it is tied with LA, both sitting in 9th place with 30 points. Vancouver has been more disappointing, mainly due to its -12 goals differential, having allowed 39 on the season.

They are just 2-7-3 on the road this season. The Whitecaps are led in scoring by F Lucas Cavallini, who has 8 goals with no other player topping 3. They have lost just 3 of their last 12.

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LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps 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 12:30 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: LA Galaxy -170 (bet $170 to win $100) | Vancouver Whitecaps +420 (bet $100 to win $420) | Draw +350
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +133 | U: -170)

[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

LA Galaxy 3, Vancouver Whitecaps 1

Money line (ML)

AVOID.

The Galaxy have been cold as of late, but the Whitecaps have been equally as bad on the road. If there is a value here, I wouldn’t hate betting TIE OR WHITECAPS FC +122.

At the same time, I see this being a high-scoring match and would rather go to the total as the odds are just more favorable.

Vancouver hasn’t lost in 4 straight road matches but did lose its first 6 straight on the road. While that recent stretch is positive, the Whitecaps have had as many or fewer expected goals in all 4.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 3.5 (+133).

The Galaxy’s home games have been high-scoring affairs recently. They have gone over this total in 4 of their last 6 and in 3 of their last 4.

They’ve had at least 2 expected goals in all 4 while their opponent has had at least 1 in each of the 4. So their offense has been cooking while their defense has been lacking.

The Whitecaps’ awful defense helps the cause as well, allowing 1.63 goals per game. Vancouver has gone over this total in 2 of its last 5 road matches as well.

This is my favorite bet of the game as the Galaxy should be able to abuse a weak Whitecaps backline.

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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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Colorado Rapids vs. Columbus Crew odds, picks and predictions

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

The Colorado Rapids (8 wins, 9 losses, 6 draws) welcome the Columbus Crew (8-6-9) to DSG Park Saturday. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Colorado Rapids vs. Columbus Crew odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Rapids are coming into this match having won 3 of their last 4 and 2 straight at home. Colorado is led in the attack by F Diego Rubio, who has 11 goals on the season.

The Rapids have been virtually unbeatable at home this season, winning 7 of 12. It has been a different story on the road as they have just 1 win in 11 matches.

The Crew, on the other hand, have surged into playoff position following a weak start. Columbus has surged into 6th place in the Eastern Conference. It has won 3 of its last 6 and is 3-1-2 over that span.

The Crew have beaten a Western Conference team just once this season, their first match of 2022 against Vancouver. Columbus is led by a defense that is giving up just 1.08 goals per game.

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Colorado Rapids vs. Columbus Crew 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 11:45 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Colorado Rapids -107 (bet $107 to win $100) | Columbus +275 (bet $100 to win $275) | Draw +275
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -145 | U: +115)

[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

Colorado Rapids 2, Columbus Crew 1

Money line (ML)

BET COLORADO RAPIDS (-107).

The Crew have not beaten or even drawn a top-10 team in the West, losing to LAFC and Nashville while drawing San Jose and Sporting KC and beating Vancouver.

On the road, they also haven’t been great, posting just a 3-2-6 record, so they have been able to play to the level of their opponent.

As for Colorado, it has been surging lately, scoring 9 goals in its last 2 matches, both against elite defensive sides (New York Red Bulls and Minnesota United).

The Rapids have the talent and have consistently taken down opponents at their home field this season. I expect that success to continue into the back half of the season.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN OVER 2.5 (-145).

As noted, Colorado has been among the best-attacking sides in the league over its last few games. It has only been shut out 4 times this season and has scored multiple goals in 5 of its last 7.

While the Crew have typically been a lesser-scoring side, they have been cooking offensively lately, scoring multiple goals in 4 of their last 6.

Both teams continued success and skill in both the midfield and final third make this a good bet, but at the value it has, I would only lean to the OVER 2.5 (-145) here.

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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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FC Cincinnati vs. Atlanta United FC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s FC Cincinnati vs. Atlanta United FC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

Atlanta United FC (7 wins, 9 losses, 7 draws) visits FC Cincinnati (8-8-8) at TQL Stadium Saturday. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the FC Cincinnati vs. Atlanta United FC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

Morale should be running high for the home side. FCC will be in playoff position after the All-Star break for the first time in club history, and they sent 2 players to the game in Minneapolis.

Brandon Vazquez, who has 14 goals and 4 assists and captain M Luciano Acosta, who has 14 combined goals and assists. FCC is both 4-4-4 on the road and at home this season.

As for Atlanta United, while having a talented roster led by former Golden Boot winner F Josef Martínez, the road team has just a 1-7-3 record away from home.

25-year-old Mexican F Ronaldo Cisneros leads the team in scoring with 7 goals. They’ve lost 3 of their last 5 road matches and are winless throughout those 5.

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

FC Cincinnati vs. Atlanta United 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 8:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: FC Cincinnati +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Atlanta United FC +240 (bet $100 to win $240) | Draw +270
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -190 | 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

FC Cincinnati 3, Atlanta United FC 1

Money line (ML)

BET FC CINCINNATI (+105).

Simply put, Atlanta has been awful on the road. They are just 0-3-3 against Eastern Conference teams in playoff position this season and 0-2-1 in those games on the road.

United hasn’t been able to get much from Martinez as he has just 5 goals in 16 matches. The 29-year-old may be starting to slow down while FCC has one of the most promising young scorers in the MLS.

Additionally, FCC is coming off a dominant 3-1 win over the conference-leading Philadelphia Union. They’ve had more shots on goal than their opponent in 4 straight home matches and only have fewer in 2 home matches this season.

While both teams have relatively weak defenses, the FCC’s quick-paced, high-scoring attack should help it come out on top.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET ALTERNATE OVER 3.5 (+130).

FCC’s attack is among the best in the East. They sit 3rd in the MLS in shots on target and 6th in shooting percentage, so they have an elite and proven attack.

Meanwhile, Atlanta allowed 1.48 goals per game and has given up 34 on the season. United has 31 goals and the firepower to score a high amount of goals.

As for FCC, they’ve given up the 7th-most shots against and also have the 4th-lowest save rate. Both teams have quality playmakers and subpar defenses, which is why the Over is the strongest play here.

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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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MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The MLS All-Stars will take on the Liga MX All-Stars Wednesday with kickoff from Allianz Field in Saint Paul, Minn. (Minnesota United FC’s home), scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

This match is coming just days following the two top leagues in the USA and Mexico having their individual teams compete in a handful of friendlies in preparation for the Leagues Cup kicking off in 2023.

This is the second time the two respective All-Star teams have come together for a match. Last season, the MLS came out on top 3-2 in a penalty kick shootout after a 1-1 finish in regulation.

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

MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars 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 12:46 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: MLS All-Stars +107 (bet $100 to win $107) | Liga MX All-Stars +195 (bet $100 to win $195) | Draw +295
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: -130 | U: -102)

[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

MLS All-Stars 2, Liga MX All-Stars 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN MLS ALL-STARS (+107).

The Liga MX side is talented, but without F Andre-Pierre Gignac, who has scored at least 13 goals in each of his past 7 seasons in the top Mexican league, Liga MX could be thin up top. Gignac has 3 goals in 7 matches this season.

As for the MLS side, it won last season and will return with stars like F Carlos Vela and F Javier Hernández, both former international stars for Mexico.

The MLS will also have an elite backline tandem in Nashville D Walker Zimmerman and New York Red Bulls D Aaron Long – both have time on the USMNT senior level.

Overall, it’s an All-Star game, so this is just a lean. But the MLS side seems to have the more high-class talent, so I’d side with the MLS. Plus, this virtually being a home match for the MLS All-Stars doesn’t hurt.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 3.5 (-102).

Sure, it’s an All-Star match, but if you remember from last season and even just from Tuesday’s skills challenge, this is personal, and I’d expect both sides to compete at a high level.

The MLS will have a solid backline, while Liga MX may have a weakened attack. Similarly, the backline for Liga MX held strong last season, allowing just 3 shots on target.

The talent makes possession easier, which could drain the game, and the fresh bodies, as both teams should have ample subs, could help with keeping both sides not strung out on counterattacks.

Considering how last season’s match went, UNDER 3.5 (-102) has strong value.

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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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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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Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United FC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United FC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The Colorado Rapids (7 wins, 9 losses, 6 draws) host Minnesota United FC (10-8-5) Saturday at DSG Park. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United FC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Rapids have had one of the league’s most interesting home vs. away splits. They are 6-2-3 at home this season, yet are 1-7-3 on the road. They were winless on the road until their last match, a wild 5-4 win over the Red Bulls.

Colorado is led in scoring by 29-year-old F Diego Rubio, who has 10 goals on 24 shots on target. While strong at home, it has won just 1 of its last 4 home matches.

As for Minnesota, it has surged up to 3rd place in the West. Minnesota has won 5 of its last 7 and 4 straight on the road. It has scored 2 or more goals in 6 of the 7.

United is led by M Emanuel Reynoso, who has 9 goals on the season, but it has been a full team effort with 4 players having scored 4 or more times. Minnesota is 5-5-1 on the road this season.

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

Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United 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 7:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Colorado Rapids -140 (bet $140 to win $100) | Minnesota United FC +350 (bet $100 to win $350) | Draw +310
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -165 | 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

Minnesota United 2, Colorado Rapids 2

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW +310.

Colorado has cooled off at home recently. After winning 5 of its first 7 home matches, it is just 1-2-1 over its last 4. The formidable defense the team had a season ago is gone and replaced with a high-octane offense.

They’ll meet a Minnesota team that has drawn 2 of its last 4 and has one of the best defenses in the West, having allowed just 30 goals.

As noted above, Minnesota’s offense has found the back of the net consistently as well. United has played within an expected goal of its opponent in 4 of their last 5 matches.

With the value placed on the draw, it’s the preferred play as the Rapids are cooling at home and Minnesota has played to the level of its competition as of late.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN ALTERNATE OVER 3.5 (+145).

Minnesota has been on fire as of late and has gone over this adjusted total in 4 of its last 7 matches. Colorado has gone over it in 3 of its 6 as well as a 9-goal match its last time on the pitch.

Colorado has given the 6th-most goals in the conference while Minnesota is tied for the 7th-most goals allowed. The Rapids have scored 17 goals in 11 home matches while United is notching over 1.5 goals per game this season.

Combine it all, and I’d take this risky play but only for a partial unit.

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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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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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FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union odds, picks and predictions

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

FC Cincinnati (7 wins, 8 losses, 8 draws) welcomes the Philadelphia Union (12-2-9) to TQL Stadium Saturday. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

FC Cincinnati was securely in the playoff hunt but have struggled as of late, tied for seventh place now. FCC has drawn 6 of their last 7, losing the only non-draw.

They haven’t won since June 24. FCC is led by two 2022 All-Stars, F Brandon Vazquez and M Luciano Acosta. Vazquez has 13 goals while Acosta, the team’s captain, has 13 combined goals and assists.

As for Philadelphia, it sits atop the Eastern Conference, having cleared some space from the second-place NYCFC.

The Union’s +25 goal differential is the best in the MLS. They are led by their backline, which has allowed a league-best 15 goals. The Union have won 5 straight, 2 of which were by at least 6 goals.

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

FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union 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 7:15 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: FC Cincinnati +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Philadelphia Union +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Draw +250
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -140 | U: +112)

[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

Philadelphia Union 2, FC Cincinnati 1

Money line (ML)

BET PHILADELPHIA UNION (+155).

It’s impossible to logically bet against the Union right now. They’re on fire, and they’re doing it with some incredible defense, ranking No. 1 in save rate and 5th in shots against.

Philadelphia has pitched four shutouts in its last 6 matches. This is its second 5-game win streak this season. The Union are just too hot right now to not bet at plus-money value.

FCC, on the other hand, has struggled, drawing 4 straight home matches and having fewer expected goals in 4 of their last 7 matches.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 2.5 (-140).

Philadelphia might have the best defense in the MLS, but it’s the attack that has stolen the show as of late. The Union have scored 2 or more in 4 of their last 5 matches.

They’ve topped this total in 4 of their last 5 matches as well. FCC drew 4-4 with Miami their last time on the pitch. FCC has been a fast-paced side, scoring 37 goals and allowing 42 in just 23 matches.

They’ve given up almost 2 goals per game. FCC drew Philadelphia 1-1 up north earlier in the season, totaling 18 shots. The road side played well and should’ve had more than just 1.

Despite a strong Union defense, betting the OVER 2.5 (-140) makes the most sense.

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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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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. New York City FC odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Columbus Crew vs. New York City FC odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The Columbus Crew (7 wins, 6 losses, 9 draws) welcome New York City FC (12-4-6) to Lower.com Field Saturday. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Columbus Crew vs. New York City FC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Crew lost their midweek match at home against CF Montreal. After leading 1-0 heading into the last 20 minutes, a weather delay paused the game and Montreal came out on fire, scoring 2 in the last 10 minutes.

Columbus dropped to 6th on the table and is just 4-4-3 at home. It is still led by star M Lucas Zelarayán who scored their lone one on Wednesday and now has 6 goals on the season.

NYCFC comes in a bit more rested, drawing CF Montreal on the road last Saturday. NYCFC sits 2nd in the Eastern Conference and has given up the 2nd-fewest goals in the MLS.

They will have to overcome the loss of 23-year-old F Valentín Castellanos (13 goals), who announced he would be leaving MLS to join Girona in La Liga. NYCFC has lost just once since April 2 and is 4-1-4 in their last 9.

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

Columbus Crew vs. New York City 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 Friday at 6:05 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Columbus Crew +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | New York City FC +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Draw +255
  • 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

New York City FC 1, Columbus Crew 0

Money line (ML)

BET NEW YORK CITY FC (+180).

The Crew are coming off a brutal loss on Wednesday while NYCFC should be rested, so there’s a slight advantage to the road side there. D Jonathan Mensah played all 90 minutes while Zelarayán played 72.

As for NYCFC, they have been dominant as of late, pitching 4 straight shutouts and leading the league in clean sheets. They have won 2 of their last 3 road matches, drawing Montreal on the road last weekend despite not playing their star striker.

Columbus lost to NYCFC 2-0 earlier in the season and is just 0-4-2 against top-5 teams in the East. It could show resilience behind a home crowd, but the value is in playing NYCFC +175 here.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN UNDER 2.5 (+100).

NYCFC has one of the best goalkeepers in the MLS in Sean Johnson. He is a stud which is why NYCFC sits 2nd in the MLS in save percentage.

Their defense is also among the best without even factoring in Johnson. They have the 4th-fewest shots against them this season. Columbus sits with the 7th-fewest goals, also possesses a terrific backline.

NYCFC has gone under this total in 4 straight games and in 3 straight road matches. The Crew have gone under this total in 12 of 21 matches this season and in 7 of 11 home matches.

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.

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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. 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.

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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. CF Montreal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Columbus Crew vs. CF Montreal odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The Columbus Crew (7 wins, 5 losses, 9 draws) welcome CF Montreal (11-8-3) to Lower.com Field Wednesday. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the Columbus Crew vs. CF Montreal odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

CF Montreal and the New York Red Bulls came into this week tied for 3rd place in the Eastern Conference with 36 points through 22 matches. Montreal, however, has given up 36 goals, the 5th-most in the East and 2nd-most of teams in the top 6.

Montreal has also scored 36 goals and is led in scoring by 30-year-old F Romell Quioto with 9. Montreal is 5-4-2 on the road this season and is 2-2-0 over its last 4 away matches.

Columbus, which has allowed the 2nd-fewest goals in the East (22), will return home after playing under half an hour in a rain-delayed game in Charlotte last Saturday. The game was finally called after hours of waiting out a thunderstorm.

The Crew haven’t lost since May 21 and post a 4-3-3 home record. They’ve drawn 3 of their last 4 home matches. Columbus is led in scoring by F Derrick Etienne and M Lucas Zelarayán, each with 5 goals and 5 assists on the season.

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

Columbus Crew vs. CF Montreal 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 Tuesday at 7:01 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Columbus Crew -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | CF Montreal +285 (bet $100 to win $285) | Draw +260
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[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

Columbus Crew 1, CF Montreal 1

Money line (ML)

LEAN DRAW (+260).

This is where the value is on the money line. The Crew should not be heavy favorites in this match and have been a drawing machine at home over the last month.

Columbus has had more expected goals than its opponent in all 3 of its recent home matches and has come out on top just once. Even if it is the better side, it hasn’t taken advantage of the opportunities.

Montreal drew the 2nd-best club in the conference, NYCFC, at home in its last match and hasn’t lost since early July, winning 2 straight prior to the draw.

Montreal is 4-3-1 against East playoff teams this season as well. Given how even matched this game should be played, I’d lean the draw.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (-110).

Montreal is a score-heavy side, but the opposite can be said of Columbus. The Crew have scored 27 (1.29 per game) and given up 22 (1.05 per game). They have gone over this mark in just 3 of their 10 home matches as well.

As for Montreal, its offense has cooled as of late as well, having scored just 4 goals in its last 5 matches. It has just 8 goals in its last 8 matches, so this has been a consistent trend.

The Crew have allowed their opponent under 1 expected goal in 4 straight home matches. They should again set the pace and help this total go under 2.5, my favorite bet in this Eastern Conference battle.

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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New York Red Bulls vs. Colorado Rapids odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s New York Red Bulls vs. Colorado Rapids odds and lines, with MLS picks and predictions.

The Colorado Rapids (6 wins, 9 losses, 6 draws) visit Red Bull Arena Tuesday to take on the New York Red Bulls (10-6-6). Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we preview the New York Red Bulls vs. Colorado Rapids odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.

The Rapids are traveling to the East Coast with one of the worst road records in the MLS. They have just 3 points in 10 away matches and have yet to win on the road (0-7-3).

Colorado has lost 2 of its last 3 road matches. The Rapids struggle to score, averaging just 1.14 goals per game. They are led by F Diego Rubio with 9 goals on the season.

The Red Bulls are led by 25-year-old Scottish F Lewis Morgan, who also has 9 goals. However, New York has scored 34 goals in 22 matches while allowing just 25.

New York didn’t win any of its first 6 home games, but has since totaled 9 points in 3 of its last 4 home matches. The Red Bulls have come out on top in 5 of their last 9 games.

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

New York Red Bulls vs. Colorado Rapids 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 12:18 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: New York Red Bulls -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Colorado Rapids +380 (bet $100 to win $380) | Draw +310
  • Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -135 | U: +110)

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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

New York Red Bulls 2, Colorado Rapids 0

Money line (ML)

AVOID.

I can’t get behind any of the value here, especially for the Red Bulls ML. While New York has proven to be the better side, the Rapids have much of the same squad that finished atop the Western Conference last season.

While they have really struggled on the road, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them figure things out, but -150 just isn’t juicy enough to back, especially considering New York has won just 3 of 10 home matches.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET UNDER 2.5 (+110).

The West is the better conference by a sizable margin, and in every home match New York has had against a team in the West, it has gone under 2.5. In 2 of the 3, it’s gone under 1.5.

The Red Bulls also have had over 1.5 expected goals in 1 of their last 4 home matches while their opponent has gone under that mark in those 4 as well. New York has allowed just 1.14 goals per game this season.

Colorado drew NYCFC 1-1 in its lone road game against an East side. There were just 1.6 expected goals by both teams. This game should replicate that one and less like the Rapids’ 2-1 loss to Seattle.

Both teams also rank in the top 10 in opponents’ shots. The defenses are there while the offenses haven’t been quite as consistent.

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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