We are about to hit the first third of the MLS regular season as we enter the 12th matchday, and we get a clash that could shake things a bit in the Eastern Conference: the “Hell is Real” Derby.
A win for Columbus Crew here could not only push them forward on the board, but it would also be a warning to all the other teams. Meanwhile, Cincinnati is just three points shy from the top.
When and Where?
Saturday, Mayo 11th, 7:45 pm ET at the Lower.com Field
Moneyline odds:
Columbus 1.87Â
Cincinnati 3.925
Draw Offs:
3.82
Where can I watch it?
MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
Why Bet on Columbus Crew?
The hosts for the match, Columbus Crew, have won three matches anddrawn six, being the team with the fewest losses at one. The defending champions are looking to pick up their pace, but considering their outstanding CONCACAF Champions Cup campaign, their level has been remarkable.
They will play the final against Pachuca on June 1st. It’s impossible to know how much time to rest the Tuzos will have, as they are currently playing the Liguilla and must face América, the team they beat in the semis of the Champions Cup.
Columbus enjoyed a few days of rest following the semifinals against Monterrey, so they came well-rested. However, despite all their continental success, the Crew has not tasted victory since March 26 in the MLS, with their last five games ending in draws.
Why Bet on FC Cincinnati?
Right now, Inter Miami is enjoying a 3-point lead at the front of FC Cincinnati at the 2nd spot. Now, the visitors will try to close the gap, featuring a record of six wins, three draws, and two losses.
Last year, they won the Supporters’ Shield for collecting the most points in the regular season. In this campaign, they would be well positioned to repeat the feat, but in front, they have a team that, name-wise, is on a whole other level with the rest of the league.
In their last match, the Orange & Blue picked up a 1-0 win over Orlando City SC, their third in a row, and their defense has been solid this season, allowing just 0.8 goals per match, the second-best mark in the MLS. However, they have given up six goals over their last five matches, a slight drop in level.
They are looking to keep themselves as close as they can to Inter Miami, and they have to face a tough challenge here, so this match is bound to be interesting.
Final Betting Analysis:Â Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati
Given that both of these teams are in the top two in the fewest goals allowed, it’d be easy to call things a 1-1 draw, but we do believe that things are not going to be that simple here.
Columbus Crew is getting ready to pick up the pace and start making their way to the top, after showing just how hard they have been to beat, and we believe that this clash against the 2nd best in the conference will be their shot to get the statement through so the other teams know what is coming up.
Expect the hosts to get the three points after a 2-1 win.
Go for a victory for the locals at 1.87. If you bet $100 at such odds, you could get $87 for a total payout of $187.