MLS: Atlanta United vs. Philadelphia Union Prediction, Odds, Betting Preview

Atlanta United and Philadelphia Union meet in the derby of the MLS Eastern Conference on Sunday. Philly comes to Atlanta with high hopes, looking to beat the rivals and attack the first place in the conference. On the other side, United is one point behind the playoff zone, but with a game in hand compared to some of the teams who are above them. Hosts have massive problems with injured and absent players, but they have no other option but to go out and give their best in search of a victory. What adds more spice to this event is that Atlanta and Philly already met in this year’s CONCACAF Champions League. Union eliminated United in that clash.

Preview

Atlanta United (+130) didn’t lose in five consecutive matches, but on the other hand, they didn’t win too much during that span as well. Atlanta posted four draws and a win across all the competitions.

Gabriel Heinze insists on his team having the ball in its feet and controlling the rhythm of the match. Furthermore, the Argentinian demands from his players to keep the ball even in some problematic situations once rivals pressure high.

Five of Atlanta’s six games saw both teams to score, but just two went above 2.5 goals during that span.

Philadelphia Union (+210) has six in a row without a defeat, winning four over the past five events, and not allowing a single goal in each of them.

What is impressive is that Union didn’t concede on the road since the beginning of the campaign. Their record away from home is four wins, one draw, and a goal difference of 7-0.

The biggest strength of this unit is a rock-solid defense. Philadelphia played 12 matches this season, and in eight, Jim Curtin’s side kept its net intact. After all, they are one of the best teams in the conference and are demonstrating that non-stop.

Latest News

Emerson Hyndman is out for a long time following his crucial ligament rupture. Mo Adams is out as well, the same as Jurgen Damm, Macho Chol, and Alan Franco. Ronald Hernandez and the fantastic striker Josef Martinez are with Venezuela at Copa America.

Jack De Vries and Ilsinho won’t play for Union due to injuries, while Jose Martinez is also with Venezuela at Copa America.

Head to Head Games

Atlanta and Philly faced back in April in the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals. The team from the City of Brotherly Love had more success, beating United in Atlanta, 0-3. The second leg ended with a draw, 1-1.

Prediction

We really don’t understand why the bookmakers favor Atlanta over Philly. First of all, Philadelphia already defeated United once before, on the road, we might add. Second, Union is in one hell of a shape, playing at the highest possible level. And for the closure, Atlanta has too many injured and absent players, some very important. Because of all this, we will take some risk and bet on the visitors’ victory. The odds are fabulous, +210, and worth trying.

MLS Pick: Philadelphia Wins +210