Los Angeles FC vs New York City FC Prediction - MLS Picks

The clash between Los Angeles FC and New York City FC promises to be an intriguing encounter in the second round of the Major League Soccer season. LAFC, playing at BMO Stadium, will look to build on their promising start after a 1-0 home victory against Minnesota United. Meanwhile, NYCFC aims to secure their first win of the season following a spirited 2-2 draw with Inter Miami CF.

Both teams have shown a propensity for high-scoring games early in the season. Our prediction leans towards an exciting match with over 3.5 goals, considering the offensive potential of both squads. LAFC, who currently sit 10th in the league, are slight favorites with bookmaker odds of 1.74 for a home win. In contrast, NYCFC, positioned 14th, will look to overcome the challenge despite injuries to key players.

Los Angeles FC vs New York City FC Prediction & Betting Tip

Our betting tip for this match is to go for Over 3.5 goals. Both Los Angeles FC and New York City FC have shown a tendency towards high-scoring games early this season. LAFC has been solid defensively but also possesses a potent attack, while NYCFC has demonstrated their offensive capabilities despite their winless start.

• Both teams have great attacking line-ups with players like Jeremy Ebobisse and Alonso Martinez who are capable of finding the net.
• Previous encounters between these teams have often been high-scoring affairs, adding to the expectation of an exciting match.
• Weather conditions are favorable for an attacking game with only scattered clouds and moderate temperatures.

Los Angeles FC Team Analysis

The recent form of Los Angeles FC has been solid, with three wins and two losses in their last five matches, resulting in a form of WWLLW.

Despite scoring an average of just 1.00 goals per game in their last five matches, LAFC has shown defensive resilience with three clean sheets. The team’s last outing, a 1-0 win at home over Minnesota United, showcased their ability to eke out narrow victories.

Their defense, anchored by veterans like Aaron Long and Hugo Lloris, has been key to their success so far this season.

Los Angeles FC Key Players

Los Angeles FC boasts several key players who are expected to make a significant impact in their clash against New York City FC.

• Jeremy Ebobisse: As the team’s top scorer with one goal, he will be leading the attack from the front.
• Hugo Lloris: The veteran goalkeeper, known for his commanding presence, will be crucial in maintaining LAFC’s solid defensive record.
• Aaron Long: A stalwart in defense, he is expected to play a pivotal role in keeping NYCFC’s attack at bay.
• Denis Bouanga: The dynamic forward adds flair and creativity, making him a constant threat.

Expected lineup for Los Angeles FC:

• Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
• Defenders: Sergi Palencia, Marlon Santos, Aaron Long, Ryan Hollingshead
• Midfielders: Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, Timothy Tillman
• Attackers: David Martínez, Jeremy Ebobisse, Denis Bouanga

Key individual battles to watch out for include Ebobisse vs. Birk Risa and Lloris’ efforts to thwart Alonso Martínez.

Los Angeles FC Suspensions & Injuries

Los Angeles FC is currently dealing with a couple of injuries that could impact their performance in the upcoming match.

The absence of Maxime Chanot and Lorenzo Dellavalle will test the depth of LAFC’s defense. While they have managed clean sheets in three of their last five games, the rotation due to injuries will require players like Aaron Long to step up further. Coach Steve Cherundolo will likely lean on his experienced bench to fill these gaps and maintain their solid defensive record.

Los Angeles FC Tactics and Formation

Los Angeles FC Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Jeremy Ebobisse, aiming to add to his goal tally.
• Midfield Trio: Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, and Timothy Tillman
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games.

LAFC has adopted a 4-3-3 formation under the guidance of head coach Steve Cherundolo. The defensive line, bolstered by experienced keeper Hugo Lloris and defenders like Aaron Long, has showcased resilience. The midfield trio plays a crucial role in both defense and attack, ensuring smooth transitions. Offensively, the team relies on Jeremy Ebobisse and Denis Bouanga to capitalize on scoring opportunities. With high morale from their recent victories and tactical discipline, expect LAFC to dominate possession and press high up the field.

New York City FC Team Analysis

New York City FC has had a mixed start to their season, displaying moments of brilliance and inconsistency. In their last five matches, their form reads as DLWWL. While they’ve managed to score an average of 2.20 goals per game, they’ve struggled defensively, keeping no clean sheets in their last five matches.

Despite these mixed results, they have shown potential in attack, with Alonso Martinez emerging as a key player. However, their defense will need to tighten up as they face a tough LAFC side.

New York City FC Key Players

New York City FC relies heavily on the talents of Alonso Martinez, their top scorer with 1 goal this season. Martinez is expected to lead the attack and will be crucial in breaking down LAFC’s defense, anchored by experienced players like Aaron Long.

Another key player to watch is Maxi Moralez, who operates as the attacking midfielder. His vision and creativity will be important in supplying Martinez and Hannes Wolf with opportunities.

Expected lineup for New York City FC:

• Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
• Defenders: Mitja Ilenic, Strahinja Tanasijevic, Birk Risa, Kevin O’Toole
• Midfielders: Justin Haak, Keaton Parks, Maxi Moralez
• Attackers: Hannes Wolf, Agustin Ojeda, Alonso Martinez

The battle between LAFC’s defense and NYCFC’s attack will be key to watch in this clash.

New York City FC Suspensions & Injuries

Injuries:

New York City FC is facing significant injury issues heading into their clash against Los Angeles FC. Three key defenders, Thiago Martins, Malachi Jones, and Tayvon Gray, are sidelined with leg injuries until mid-March 2025. This puts pressure on the existing defensive lineup to step up against a formidable LAFC offense.

With no suspensions affecting the team, Pascal Jansen will have to rely heavily on the remaining fit players to fill the defensive void and maintain the team’s structure.

New York City FC Tactics and Formation

New York City FC’s Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Alonso Martínez
• Midfield Trio: Justin Haak, Keaton Parks, Maxi Moralez
• Defensive Strategy: Due to the absence of three key defenders, Thiago Martins, Malachi Jones, and Tayvon Gray, NYCFC will need to rely on their remaining defensive players, including Matt Freese in goal and Strahinja Tanasijevic at center back.
• Notable Strategy: NYCFC often looks to control the midfield battle with Parks as a pivot, while Maxi Moralez pulls the strings from an attacking midfield position. Alonso Martínez is key up front, aiming to exploit any defensive weaknesses in LAFC’s setup. Expect NYCFC to adapt defensively and aggressively press to counter LAFC’s attacking strengths.

Los Angeles FC vs New York City FC Head-to-Head Statistics

In the last three encounters between Los Angeles FC and New York City FC, both teams have displayed competitive performances with close results. Their most recent meeting ended in a 1-2 loss for LAFC at home. New York City FC managed to secure a 2-2 draw in their previous two outings against LAFC. Overall, history points towards tightly contested fixtures, with plenty of goals scored by both sides.