MLS preview and tips: New York City too strong for Miami, plus goals at Philadelphia
Ahead of another weekend of exciting MLS action, Tipstrr's Stateside soccer expect George Dempsey has been scanning the week three fixtures to identify where the best betting value is to be found.
Week two of MLS is in the books, and it was another week dominated by the home sides. Last week, we looked at the prevalence of home wins in Major League Soccer and especially at the tendency for teams to win their first home game.
That brings them both into focus as week three rolls around, and we will also get to see Minnesota United, Real Salt Lake, Toronto, Sporting KC, and New York City FC play their first home games of the season.
Back the home sides again?
Perhaps not as freely as the first two weeks, but it may be wise to pay close attention to those playing their first home game. We've seen home teams win at a 67 per cent rate so far, but the 2022 season saw home teams win 49 per cent of games.
It may not sound big, but the Premier League for example has averaged 44 per cent home wins over the past five seasons, with MLS averaging just over 50 per cent in the same period.
It has to be said that Toronto need to start producing before bettors can trust them as such a clear home favourite, and Columbus Crew +0.25AH feels a wise bet.
Inter Miami did not travel well last season, losing 12 of their 17 away games, and there's no reason to believe this season will be significantly different for either side. Nice and simple - back New York City to win.
Philadelphia are still the team to beat
The current price for Philadelphia Union to win and Over 2.5 goals in the game feels generous.
Suggested bets
- New York City FC vs Inter Miami: New York City to win
- Toronto CF v Columbus Crew: Columbus +0.25 AH
- Philadelphia Union vs Chicago Fire: Philadelphia to win and Over 2.5 goals
George Dempsey provides tips as MLS Betting UK 2023 on Tipstrr