MLS is deep into the stretch run now, with the playoff picture in both conferences starting to take real shape and every weekend carrying a little more weight than the last. August has been a tale of contrasts around the league — some clubs finding their form at exactly the right time, others scrambling to salvage what’s left of their season before the calendar turns. Saturday’s slate is no exception, and two matchups in particular stand out for value: FC Cincinnati at home against a reeling Seattle Sounders side, and Chicago Fire looking to extend a hot streak on the road against New York Red Bulls.
GettyCINCINNATI, OHIO – FC Cincinnati are unbeaten in 5 of their last 6 as they host a struggling Seattle side.
FC Cincinnati Look to Cover Big at Home Against Struggling Seattle
FC Cincinnati host Seattle Sounders at TQL Stadium on Saturday night, and this has the look of a lopsided one. Cincinnati enters the match unbeaten in five of their last six, riding a run that includes a 2-1 win over New York City FC in their last outing, with no fresh injury concerns to report for Pat Noonan’s group. Seattle, on the other hand, has lost eight straight games and been outscored badly on the road, conceding multiple goals in each of their last three matches. Cincinnati’s attack has been prolific all season, averaging well over two goals a game, and a Seattle backline that’s been leaking goals at this rate makes the Orange and Blue a strong bet not just to win, but to win comfortably.
Pick: CINCINNATI -1.5 GOALS @ +150
Chicago Fire’s Six-Game Winning Streak Meets a Red Bulls Side in Freefall
Chicago Fire travel to Harrison, New Jersey to face New York Red Bulls, and the Fire arrive in red-hot form. Chicago has won six straight matches across all competitions, with Robert Lewandowski scoring in each of his last three league appearances since joining the club, including the winner in a midweek victory at Orlando City. Red Bull New York, meanwhile, is a different story entirely — the club has gone 1-4 since returning from the World Cup break and is dealing with real absences, with midfielder Andre Franco out with a knee injury and defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi sidelined by a torn thigh muscle. Chicago is the better team playing the better soccer right now, and the road underdog price on a team riding this much momentum looks worth taking.
Pick: CHICAGO FIRE @ +135
This is only a snapshot of a long MLS season, and injuries, suspensions, and late lineup changes can shift things quickly. Approach these picks conservatively, stake only what you can afford to lose, and remember that no wager is ever guaranteed. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER.
Saturday, Aug. 22nd MLS Betting Picks: Cincinnati and Chicago Fire To Keep Rolling