Orlando City vs Columbus Crew Predictions and Betting Tips
The Exploria Stadium is the stage for this top-tier encounter as Orlando City and Columbus Crew clash in the MLS. With just one point being the difference between these two sides, this matchup will certainly make a good watch for the neutral fans. It is then left to see which side gets the victory to top the other in the Eastern Conference standings.
Looking at the head-to-head record, both sides look on par having won five games each of the last fourteen meetings. However, the last three encounters have ended in favour of Orlando City with the most recent win ending in a narrow 1-0 victory. Will Pareja and his boys manage to get another win on Monday?
Unbeaten run still in play for the home side
Orlando City has been the most consistent side in the Eastern Conference with the side currently on a run of 10 games without a loss. Although there have been some disappointing draws in the mix, going 10 games without defeat is a feat to be commended. One of those disappointing draws came last time out as they played out a goalless draw away at Atalanta United.
No wins in three for Zardes and Co.
Columbus Crew are currently going through a rough patch with two losses and a draw in the last three matches. This run has seen them surrender the top spots to Toronto FC and Philadelphia Union. With the Black and Gold sitting in 3rd place, three points from Toronto FC who are atop the table, they certainly will be intent upon breaking that three-game jinx as they head to Orlando.
They shockingly lost to Montreal Impact in their previous game which ended 2-1 in favour of the away side. The visitors took the lead in the 24th minute via Lappanainen whose goal was cancelled out at the stroke of halftime by Gyasi Zardes. A 74th-minute penalty from Bojan settled the tie as Montreal Impact left Ohio with three points.
Orlando City vs Columbus Crew Team News
For the away team, Valenzuela and Zelarayan are both doubtful for this tie with the duo battling with injuries. With regards to the home side, Kyle Smith seems to be the only injury concern after picking up a knock in their previous game.
Orlando City possible starting XI:
Rowe; Miller, Jansson, Schegel; Robinho, DeZar, Urso, De John; Perea; Michel, Dike
Columbus Crew possible starting XI:
Tarbell; Aful, Mensah, Williams, Jimenez; Artur, Morris; Mukhtar, Santos, Diaz; Zardes
Orlando City vs Columbus Crew Prediction: 1-1
3rd place meets 4th place in the MLS on Monday in what is expected to be a highly-promising encounter. Although the away side hasn't been at their best lately, they possess a well-rounded team to get all three points at Orlando. However, we don't think the Lions will lose this game as they're also keen on stretching that unbeaten run. As a result, we would sit on the fence for this one with the game expected to end in a scoring draw.
