Montreal vs New York Red Bulls predictions for their clash in the MLS. CF Montreal aim to extend their MLS unbeaten run to five matches when they host the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday at Saputo Stadium. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.
Major League Soccer | Jun 20, 2024 at 12.30am UK at Stade Saputo
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Montreal vs New York Red Bulls Predictions
Will Montreal and the Red Bulls Break Their Goal Droughts?
Key Stats
– Montreal have averaged 1.4 goals per game while conceding 2.1, highlighting their defensive challenges.
– The Red Bulls have scored 1.6 goals per game but have failed to find the net in their last two matches.
– Both teams have registered more goals in the second half in recent games, suggesting a potential for late drama.
As CF Montreal prepare to host the New York Red Bulls at Saputo Stadium, both teams aim to extend their unbeaten runs in the MLS. Montreal have been gradually improving their standings in the Eastern Conference, while the Red Bulls seek to maintain their top-three position. This encounter promises a tight contest with both sides striving for crucial points.
CF Montreal’s Current Form
Montreal have been on a steady rise, having avoided defeat in their last four matches. Their recent 0-0 draw with Real Salt Lake demonstrated their defensive solidity, a marked improvement from earlier in the season when they conceded frequently. Laurent Courtois’s men have been particularly resilient at home, securing points in their last three fixtures at Saputo Stadium, including two clean sheets.
Key players like Matias Coccaro and Bryce Duke have been pivotal in their offensive efforts. Coccaro’s return from injury has bolstered their attack, while Duke continues to provide creative support. The absence of Josef Martinez and other key figures due to injuries and international duties, however, poses a challenge for Courtois in maintaining this momentum.
New York Red Bulls’ Recent Struggles
The New York Red Bulls have faced their own set of challenges, particularly with their inability to convert chances into goals. Their recent 0-0 draw with Nashville SC highlighted this issue, despite dominating the play and registering seven shots on target. This match marked their second consecutive goalless draw, reflecting their recent offensive struggles.
Sandro Schwarz’s team, however, remains resilient, sitting third in the Eastern Conference. Their away form has been less convincing, with three losses in their last four road games, including a heavy 6-2 defeat to Inter Miami. The Red Bulls will miss key players like Lewis Morgan and Emil Forsberg, which further complicates their quest for goals and points.
Expected Lineups
CF Montreal: Sirois; Campbell, Corbo, Alvarez; Ruan, Saliba, Wanyama, Lappalainen; Duke, Yankov; Coccaro
New York Red Bulls: Meara; D. Nealis, S. Nealis, Eile, Tolkin; Harper, Amaya, Edelman, Forsberg; Vanzeir, Manoel
Montreal will rely heavily on Coccaro and Duke for their attacking thrust, while the Red Bulls will look to Elias Manoel to step up in the absence of their top scorers. Defensive stability will be key for both teams, especially considering their recent form.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be crucial in this matchup. Victor Wanyama and Nathan Saliba for Montreal will face off against the Red Bulls’ Frankie Amaya and Daniel Edelman. The ability to control the midfield and transition swiftly to attack will be vital. Additionally, the duel between Montreal’s Coccaro and the Red Bulls’ Sean Nealis could determine the outcome, with Coccaro’s sharpness and Nealis’s defensive prowess coming to the fore.
Gameplay and Strategy
CF Montreal’s Approach
Montreal are likely to adopt a balanced approach, focusing on maintaining possession and building attacks through the flanks. Their recent defensive improvements suggest they will also be keen to keep a clean sheet, especially against a struggling Red Bulls attack.
New York Red Bulls’ Strategy
The Red Bulls may opt for a more aggressive approach, pressing high and looking to exploit any defensive lapses from Montreal. With key offensive players missing, their ability to convert chances will be tested, making it essential for them to be efficient with their opportunities.
Managerial Analysis
Laurent Courtois
Courtois has done well to stabilise Montreal after a shaky start. His tactical flexibility and ability to inspire his team have been evident in their recent unbeaten run. However, his challenge will be to maintain this form despite key absences and ensure his team can compete at the highest level consistently.
Sandro Schwarz
Schwarz has managed to keep the Red Bulls competitive despite their scoring issues. His tactical adjustments have been critical in maintaining their position in the top three. However, his inability to resolve their finishing problems has been a significant drawback, which he must address to keep their campaign on track.
Strengths and Weaknesses
CF Montreal
Strengths: Solid recent home form, improved defensive performances, balanced midfield. Weaknesses: Key player absences, reliance on a few attacking players, occasional lapses in concentration.
New York Red Bulls
Strengths: High pressing game, solid midfield control, resilience in tight matches. Weaknesses: Poor finishing, inconsistent away form, reliance on missing key players.
Expected Goals Analysis
Montreal have averaged 1.4 goals per game while conceding 2.1, indicating their defensive vulnerabilities despite recent improvements. The Red Bulls have scored 1.6 goals per game and conceded 1.3, reflecting a more balanced but still vulnerable defence. This suggests a closely contested match with limited scoring opportunities.
Betting Angles and Trends
Given both teams’ recent form and their scoring struggles, markets such as Under 2.5 Goals and Both Teams to Score (BTTS) No offer value. Montreal’s home advantage and the Red Bulls’ away difficulties also suggest a potential draw.
Predictions
Best Bet: Under 2.5 Goals
Considering the recent scoring struggles of both teams and their focus on defensive solidity, the best bet for this match is Under 2.5 Goals. Both teams have shown a tendency to be involved in low-scoring affairs, making this a likely outcome.
Correct Score: CF Montreal 0-0 New York Red Bulls
A goalless draw is a plausible result, given both teams’ recent inability to convert chances and their improved defensive displays. This scoreline reflects their current form and the anticipated tight nature of the match.
Goalscorer: Matias Coccaro
Matias Coccaro has been a key player for Montreal, and his return from injury has added a much-needed boost to their attack. His sharpness in front of goal makes him a strong candidate to score, especially given the Red Bulls’ defensive vulnerabilities.
First Team to Score: New York Red Bulls
Despite their scoring issues, the Red Bulls are likely to strike first if they can capitalise on Montreal’s occasional defensive lapses. Their high pressing game could force errors and create early scoring opportunities.
Innovative Market: Total Cards Over 3.5
Given the competitive nature of this match and the disciplinary records of both teams, predicting over 3.5 total cards seems logical. Both sides have shown a propensity for picking up yellow cards, which will likely continue in this high-stakes encounter.
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