In one of four MLS games Sunday, the New York Red Bulls (4 wins, 5 losses, 0 draws) visit Atlanta United FC (2-2-5) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview the New York Red Bulls vs. Atlanta United FC odds and lines, and make our best MLS bets, picks and predictions.
The Red Bulls come into the match after pushing the top-ranked New England Revolution to their limits in a 3-2 loss Wednesday. In their only other game after the international break, the Red Bulls won 2-0 over Nashville SC.
New York’s offense has been rolling as of late, and it’s going to need a result to keep climbing the ladder. The Red Bulls will need to down an Atlanta United FC that’s struggled to close out games, as you can see with the 5 draws on their record.
Since coming back from the break, United lost to New York City FC (1-0) and drew the Philadelphia Union (2-2). With 10th place and fourth place in the Eastern Conference separated by four points, both teams will desperately be looking for a win Sunday afternoon.
New York Red Bulls at Atlanta United FC: Odds, picks and predictions
Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:50 a.m. ET.
- Money line: New York Red Bulls +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Atlanta United FC +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Draw +225
- Over/Under: 2.5 (O: -135 | U: +100)
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Prediction
New York Red Bulls 1, Atlanta United FC 0
Money line (ML)
“LEAN” to NEW YORK (+230) as the best value on the money line. While I’d love to consider Atlanta United as their home field typically offers an advantage, they just aren’t the same team without F Josef Martinez.
United has scored just 11 goals through nine games; however, they have two wins and two ties at home, so they’ve yet to lose. On top of that, the Red Bulls have struggled on the road, at 0-4-0.
Those obstacles will eventually be overcome.
Atlanta is coming off a loss while New York had a dominant victory over Nashville before the narrow loss to the Revolution. While the numbers may look against it, New York will look to build momentum, and at this value, is worth considering.
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Over/Under (O/U)
BET the UNDER 2.5 (+100) as neither team is impressive in the attacking half.
The teams have combined for 25 goals in 18 games. They’ve both given up one less than they’ve scored, as well. This one is a toss-up as neither is overly impressive.
Eighteen-year-old Red Bulls MF Caden Clark, who will be transferred at the end of the season, has clearly been the best player for the Red Bulls. If he takes the pitch, they’ll have the upper hand in the midfield.
Both teams are outside of the top 14 in terms of shots and outside the top 10 in goals.
Lastly, the Under hit in both teams’ last game. This is likely to be another instance of the defense getting the better of the formerly top-tier franchises.
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