MLS: New York City FC vs. Philadelphia Union odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Thursday’s New York City FC vs. Philadelphia Union sports betting odds and lines, with MLS betting picks, tips and best bets.

New York City FC (0 wins, 2 losses, 0 draws) takes on Philadelphia Union (0-1-1) Thursday at 9 a.m. ET in the “MLS is Back Tournament” in the bubble at the Wide World of Sports complex at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. We analyze the New York City FC-Philadelphia Union sports betting odds and lines, while providing MLS betting tips and picks around this matchup from BetMGM sportsbook.

New York City FC vs. Philadelphia Union: Key injuries

New York City FC

  • MF Nicolas Acevedo (coronavirus travel restrictions) available

Philadelphia Union

  • F Cory Burke (travel restrictions) out

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New York City FC vs. Philadelphia Union: MLS odds, betting lines and picks

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 4:40 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Philadelphia Union 2, New York City FC 1

Moneyline (ML)

New York City FC (+135) was dropped 1-0 in each of its first two matches, showing off a lack of offense but tremendous defense and goalkeeping. PHILADELPHIA UNION (+180) is the better value here, as it found the back of the net three times in the first two games of the regular season while allowing five goals. Union’s lack of defense shouldn’t be an issue here against a New York side which is still looking for its first goal of 2020. A “Double Chance” bet taking Philadelphia or Tie (-176) might also be worth a small-unit wager if you’re just looking to dip your toe into the MLS betting pool and not get crazy until you get a bit of a preview.

A winning $10 wager on Philadelphia (+180) fetches a profit of $18.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 3.5 (-167) will cost you a bit of a pretty penny, and in normal times it might be a bit worrisome considering Philly’s lack of defense in the first two matches. However, we have a 9 a.m. ET start, as MLS scheduled games in the early morning or evening in Orlando to limit the exposure to the scorching hot Central Florida sun and weather issues. But teams might be a bit sluggish offensively, rolling out of bed and playing meaningful games. Look for a slow offensive start for both ends.

Want some action in this one? Place a bet with BetMGM today. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

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