Atlanta United vs Columbus Crew predictions for Tuesday’s MLS action at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Can the home side bounce back after suffering loss in Game 1 or will the visitors prevail once again on Tuesday night? Read on for our free MLS predictions and betting tips.
Match Live Wednesday, 8th November at 12:00 am In:
Atlanta United vs Columbus Crew Predictions
[wptb id="395924" not found ]A Tactical Deep-Dive into Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew Playoff Showdown
Key Stats
– Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernandez is the man to watch, with a goal contribution every 94 minutes on average.
– The two teams have a history of high-scoring games, with their last five encounters yielding an average of 3.2 goals per game.
As the Major League Soccer playoffs intensify, Atlanta United are set to welcome Columbus Crew for the second game of their best-of-three series. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Atlanta, who are fighting to extend their season after a disappointing 2-0 loss in the series opener. This loss extends their worrying trend in the playoffs, failing to find the net in two consecutive postseason matches and registering a three-game losing streak.
In contrast, Columbus Crew showcased a formidable performance last Wednesday, securing a “top performance” victory, as quoted by their manager Wilfried Nancy. This win not only cemented their place in the playoffs but also extended their unbeaten streak to seven games.
Our Suggested Best Value Bet For This Match
BEST VALUE BET £20 Returns £33   Odds corrects at time of posting and subject to change |
Best Value Bet Rationale
This selection offers significant value, not least because of Hernández’s prolific shooting in recent matches. With an average of 2.2 shots on target per game this season and a goal conversion rate that underscores his efficiency in front of goal, his propensity to test goalkeepers is beyond question. Hernández has not only found the back of the net 18 times this season but also boasts a BettingTips4You Expert Rating of 7.53, reflecting his consistent attacking threat.
The context of the upcoming match further amplifies the attractiveness of this bet. Atlanta United have displayed defensive vulnerabilities, especially at home, which could provide Hernández with ample opportunities to extend his run of five goals in the last three matches. The Crew’s sharpshooter is hitting his peak at the most pivotal time, and against an Atlanta side that has struggled to keep clean sheets, Hernández’s eye for goal could prove decisive.
It’s important to note, as with all betting markets, that odds are subject to change and the usual terms and conditions apply. Nevertheless, Hernández’s proven capability of delivering on the statistical front makes the ‘over 1.5 shots on target’ market a compelling bet for this fixture.
Analysing Home and Away Dynamics
Atlanta’s performance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been a mixed bag. While they have lost only once in seven home playoff fixtures, their recent form suggests a vulnerability, particularly in the first half of matches. Their propensity to concede early goals could be detrimental against a Columbus side that has mastered the art of capitalising on early leads.
On the flip side, the Crew’s away form leaves much to be desired, with most of their losses in the regular season happening on the road. Despite this, they’ve shown resilience in defence, conceding one goal or fewer in their last seven matches, hinting at a tightening at the back at crucial moments.
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Impact Players and Possible Returns
Atlanta will be buoyed by the potential return of Thiago Almada, whose presence could galvanize their midfield creativity. Giorgos Giakoumakis, the team’s top scorer, will also be a focal point, having notched 17 goals this season. For Columbus, Cucho Hernandez’s recent scoring spree, with five goals in three games, will surely be a threat Atlanta must contain.
Tactical Battles and Managers’ Duel
Atlanta’s game relies heavily on ball possession, with a noteworthy 55.6% average, coupled with their proficiency in dribbling. Columbus, however, edges them slightly in ball recovery, signalling a contest that could be decided in midfield turnovers.
Gonzalo Pineda’s Atlanta have demonstrated resilience by earning points from losing positions, particularly at home. Nancy’s Columbus, in contrast, have the edge when they score first, highlighting the importance of an early goal in this encounter.
Strategic Outlook and Managers’ Scrutiny
The midfield battle will be critical, with turnovers and set-pieces offering scoring avenues. Key player duels, like Almada against Columbus’ defensive midfielders, could pivot the game’s momentum.
As for the teams’ gameplay, Atlanta may adopt an aggressive stance early on, while Columbus might employ a counter-attacking strategy, seeking to exploit any overcommitment from Atlanta’s part.
Opinions on Team Strategies
Atlanta United’s attacking prowess is evident, with their home scoring record being commendable. However, their defensive lapses, particularly in the early stages of games, are a glaring weakness. For Columbus Crew, their ability to hold a lead is a strength, yet their away form and defensive issues cannot be overlooked.
Managers’ Strengths and Critique
Gonzalo Pineda’s Atlanta has shown tactical flexibility, but his side’s sluggish starts to games warrant criticism. Conversely, Nancy’s ability to organise his team, especially in tight fixtures, is admirable. However, his conservative approach away from home could be critiqued as it may invite undue pressure.
Teams’ Expected Goals Analysis
Atlanta’s expected goals (xG) average reflects their aggressive play, but they must be wary of Columbus, whose xG also indicates a significant threat upfront.
Predictions and Insights
Given the current form and statistical evidence, here are four insightful predictions:
- Both Teams to Score and Win Market: Considering Atlanta’s scoring record at home and Columbus’ defensive lapses away, both teams finding the net seems likely, but with Atlanta’s determination to stay in the playoffs, a win for the home side appears a justified prediction.
- Correct Score Prediction: A tight contest is expected, but Atlanta’s desperation and home advantage could edge a 2-1 victory.
- Goalscorer Prediction: With Thiago Almada returning to the fold, his fresh legs and technical prowess could see him on the scoresheet. The first goal, however, might come from the boot of Giakoumakis, given his prolific scoring form.
- Corner Prediction: The match’s ebb and flow suggest Atlanta might have a slight edge in corners, given their average of 4.8 per game. A prediction of 10 total corners combines the attacking natures of both teams with their defensive vulnerabilities.
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