On May 17 at Inter&Co Stadium, MLS Eastern Conference basement dwellers Orlando City SC will face Atlanta United FC. Both sides are tied on 10 points, in 12th and 13th place respectively, in this important six-point match. For fans in Kenya looking to add some action to the game, Linebet has complete coverage, and if you want to bet in-play, you can download the app. While fans are searching for football predictions, let’s take a closer look at this match.
Recent history: disheartening outcomes
The two teams share a 3-1-7 record so far, but there are stark differences in the numbers. Orlando City SC have the league’s worst defence, allowing 32 goals in 10 games (2.9 per game). They also have the league’s lowest goal difference: -16. Atlanta United FC, for their part, are also not having a good season; they have conceded 18 goals, but have only scored 12 – the second-lowest in the MLS.
Tactical breakdown
Orlando City SC have issues with the ball out of play – 41% of their goals conceded is from set pieces. Speed consistently beats their high line. And Atlanta United FC are uncreative, with just 6 team assists. Neither team has a prolific goal scorer; Orlando’s highest scorer has only three goals.
Atlanta hold the edge in recent head-to-head meetings, winning three of the last five matches. But recent performances indicate a tight, physical contest.
Prediction and expectation
The weakness of Orlando’s defence and the ineptitude of Atlanta United FC’s attack will make this a game to watch. But Orlando’s defence is so weak that even the struggling forwards of Atlanta will be able to score.
- Over 2.5 goals: Orlando matches average 4.1 goals. Atlanta matches average 2.6. Home team struggles to defend means goals.
- Both teams to score – Yes: Orlando has allowed a goal in every game this season. Atlanta has scored in 6 of 10 away games.
- Score 2-2: both sides have poor defensive records, making a high-scoring draw a statistically plausible outcome.
Verdict: Don’t bet on a winner. Instead, target goals. Orlando will be desperate to pick up points, while Atlanta will only have the chance to take advantage of opportunities. A scrappy, high-scoring draw is a likely outcome.
