Tip: Both teams to score (BTTS)
Chicago Fire are still in the playoff race and under coach Gregg Berhalter they play offensively, which is also reflected in the fact that they are one of the few Eastern Conference teams with more than 50 goals scored. Their problem, however, remains the defense, which is among the most porous and concedes in almost every match. At home, though, they are doing well – they are unbeaten in their last three home games. The New England Revolution have a solid away record, having taken points in nine of their last eleven away matches. Their form is inconsistent, though, and they often lose by a narrow margin, as shown by their position outside the playoffs. In attack they can rely on Carles Gil or Ignatius Ganago, who are able to decide matches. History also suggests that they do well against Chicago, as they have consistently taken points there. Given the attacking power of both teams and the weaker defenses, it is likely that both sides will score.
Tip: Houston Dynamo to win
Houston Dynamo opened the door back to the playoff fight with a victory over St. Louis City, and under Ben Olsen they look organized despite having a long winless run. Their main weakness is at home, where they have won only four league matches this year, but they have done well at home against the Galaxy in recent duels. Los Angeles Galaxy may have celebrated victory in the Leagues Cup, but in MLS they are still last and have not won a single away game this season. The Galaxy defense looks chaotic and often concedes three or more goals away from home. Although the attack with Pec and Joveljic is dangerous, stability is lacking. Houston will rely on the productive Ezequiel Ponce and the support of the fans, which is always their strong weapon. Given the opponent’s form and the need for points, a home win is very likely.
Tip: FC Dallas to win
St Louis City lost their last three league games by the same 2-3 scoreline and their defense looks vulnerable. New coach David Critchley has so far failed to stop the series of poor results, although the team plays more attractively than under the previous coach. Their position in the table is critical – St. Louis are far below the playoff line and need a miracle to save the season. FC Dallas also have problems with consistency, but they are still close to advancing and also have games in hand. Their biggest problem is their away record, where they have won only once in their last seven outings. However, they have never lost to St. Louis in MLS and have taken points in four of their last six meetings against them. Dallas have a better chance of success thanks to the stronger form of their forwards and the weak defense of their opponent. Therefore, a tip for a Dallas win is logical.
Tip: Both teams to score (BTTS)
Sporting Kansas City managed to bounce back after a series of defeats and turned the game against Colorado with three second-half goals. Their biggest weapon is the ability to get back into matches even from unfavorable situations, which is shown by the highest number of points gained from comebacks. However, the defense remains a problem, as they have already conceded 42 goals this season. Austin FC have more stable form and thanks to good defensive organization they remain above the playoff line. Nevertheless, they regularly concede away from home, although they can also take advantage of set pieces and their attack is dangerous in transition. The head-to-heads of these two teams have often produced goals on both sides, and Kansas tends to be more offensive at home. Therefore, the most likely scenario is that both teams will find the net.