Orlando City vs DC United Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews for this MLS fixture. Orlando City aim for consecutive league victories for the first time in 2024 as they face bottom-placed DC United at Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday night. Read on for our free predictions and tips.
Major League Soccer | Jul 7, 2024 at 12.30am UK at Orlando City Stadium
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Orlando City vs DC United Predictions
Can Orlando City Capitalise on DC United’s Struggles?
Key Stats
– Orlando City have secured just nine points from 10 home games this season.
– DC United are on a 10-game winless streak, collecting only three points in that period.
– Christian Benteke has netted 14 goals in 18 appearances for DC United this season.
Orlando City are seeking to string together back-to-back league victories for the first time in 2024 as they face the struggling DC United at the Inter&Co Stadium in this weekend’s Major League Soccer clash.
Current Form and Recent Performances
Orlando City come into this match on the back of a hard-fought victory against Toronto FC, which marked their second win in three games. The victory was a much-needed boost for the Lions, who have been inconsistent throughout the season. Their win in Canada was far from straightforward, with Toronto initially taking the lead through Derrick Etienne. However, Orlando clawed their way back into the match, with Martin Ojeda and an own goal by Nickseon Gomis sealing the win.
DC United, on the other hand, are entrenched at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Their recent defeat to Cincinnati extended their winless run to ten matches, a sequence that includes seven losses. Despite showing flashes of potential, such as scoring twice against a strong Cincinnati side, their defensive frailties were exposed once again as they conceded three goals.
Expected Goals Analysis
Orlando City’s xG (expected goals) metric reflects their struggles in front of goal, averaging 1.3 goals per game. Despite creating an average of 2.5 big chances per game, they often fail to capitalise, as evidenced by their 1.7 big chances missed per game. Their defensive record is equally concerning, conceding 1.7 goals per game, which underscores their vulnerability at the back.
Conversely, DC United’s xG stands at 1.4 goals per game, slightly better than Orlando’s, but their defensive issues are more pronounced, with an average of 1.9 goals conceded per game. Their ability to create big chances (2.9 per game) has not translated into results, mainly due to their high number of missed opportunities (1.8 per game).
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be crucial in this fixture. Orlando’s César Araújo and DC United’s Mateusz Klich will be central to controlling the tempo. Araújo’s ball-winning abilities will be tested against Klich’s vision and passing range. Another key duel will be between Orlando’s leading scorer Duncan McGuire and DC United’s veteran striker Christian Benteke. McGuire, with seven goals this season, will look to exploit DC’s porous defence, while Benteke, with 14 goals, remains a constant threat for any defence.
Tactical Analysis and Gameplay Predictions
Orlando City, typically set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, are likely to adopt an attacking approach, leveraging the creativity of Facundo Torres and Martin Ojeda in the attacking midfield roles. The pace and dribbling ability of Ivan Angulo on the wing will also be pivotal in stretching DC United’s defence.
DC United, likely to field a 4-5-1 formation, will focus on a compact and disciplined defensive structure. With Aaron Herrera and Pedro Santos tasked with containing Orlando’s wingers, they will rely on Benteke’s physical presence upfront to hold up play and bring midfield runners into the attack.
Strategies and Suggestions for Improvement
Orlando City need to enhance their finishing efficiency to convert more of the chances they create. Additionally, tightening their defensive structure, especially in the closing stages of matches, could prevent the late goals that have often cost them points.
For DC United, improving their defensive organisation is paramount. Reducing individual errors and improving communication at the back could help stem the flow of goals conceded. Offensively, they should seek to support Benteke better, ensuring he is not isolated and has midfielders making runs beyond him to create scoring opportunities.
Managerial Critique and Dynamics
Oscar Pareja’s management has been under scrutiny due to Orlando’s inconsistency. His tactics have sometimes been questioned, particularly the lack of defensive solidity. In contrast, Troy Lesesne’s tenure at DC United has been marred by a series of disappointing results, and his inability to turn around the team’s fortunes raises significant concerns about his tactical acumen and motivational skills.
Predictions
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score
Both Orlando and DC United have shown vulnerabilities in defence, conceding goals regularly. However, they also possess attacking talents capable of breaching each other’s backline. With players like Benteke for DC and McGuire for Orlando, it’s highly likely that both teams will find the net in this encounter.
Correct Score Prediction: Orlando City 2-1 DC United
Given Orlando’s slight edge in form and home advantage, they are likely to edge out DC United. However, considering both teams’ defensive records, a clean sheet seems unlikely. A 2-1 victory for Orlando aligns with the expected dynamics of the game, where both teams score but Orlando emerge victorious.
Goalscorer Prediction: Christian Benteke to Score Anytime
Benteke has been a standout performer for DC United despite their struggles. With 14 goals to his name this season, he remains a constant threat in the box. Given Orlando’s defensive frailties, backing Benteke to score anytime in the match is a prudent choice.
First Half Result Prediction: Orlando City to Lead
Orlando have often started games on the front foot, particularly at home. Against a struggling DC United side, they are likely to take the initiative early on. Expect Orlando to be leading at the break as they look to capitalise on DC United’s slow starts.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target Over 5.5 for Orlando
Orlando average four shots on target per game. Facing a DC United defence that has been prone to conceding opportunities, it’s reasonable to expect Orlando to exceed their average. Betting on Orlando to have more than 5.5 shots on target could be a valuable angle, given their attacking prowess and DC’s defensive record.
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