First round of the MLS playoffs for the Best of 3 series- these are pitches between Cincinnati FC and New York City FC. This is a scintillating game, as both teams come into this tie with really alternating recent forms and streaks. One talking point could be the frailty at the back of Cincinnati, which has consistently led to conceding and high-scoring games lately when NYCFC's dynamic attack has been seen as a double-edged sword for them. Given the slight edge NYCFC has in the head-to-head rivalry, this match could very well define the tone of the series.
The match is set to be held at TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, where Cincinnati would want to gain an edge in the series by utilizing home-field advantage. Both teams would want to win the first game of the playoffs, especially with NYCFC coming off a loss. Pat Noonan's lineup for Cincinnati has to take on Nicholas Cushing's flexible NYCFC setup in what is sure to be an intriguing playoff thriller.
Claim Welcome BonusCincinnati FC
Cincinnati FC comes into this match after an impressive 2-1 win against Philadelphia, with a very interesting formation in attack of 3-4-1-2. In the last five matches, however, they have struggled to string together consistent results - only one win, one draw, and three losses in that timeframe. At the back, Cincinnati has leaked goals, conceding in six straight games. The data reflects high-scoring games; over 2.5 goals in six games in a row and both teams scoring in each. The tendency of conceding first in five of their last six games could signify a tactical weakness that NYCFC will be hoping to capitalize on.
As a tactic, Cincinnati relies on a three-center-back base attempting to cover up the defensive frailties while giving license to push full-backs further forward to add width. On the flip side of allowing clean sheets, it may be difficult for Cincinnati to stop the quick attacking transitions of NYCFC. While they indeed have stout capabilities in transitioning from defense to attack, this often at the back leaves gaps that are testified by tendencies to concede first in their recent games. They must focus on closing those spaces and press high up to prevent NYCFC from building momentum.
New York City FC
Meanwhile, NYCFC has been on a better run of form in recent weeks, having picked up 3 wins in their last five games, although they come off a 2-0 loss to Montreal. With a 4-2-3-1 set-up under Cushing, NYCFC has also continued to see scattered goal contributions across the lineup-a factor that will be particularly huge in the playoff setting. Although their defense is vulnerable, having conceded 13 in their last five matches, they are still potent in attack. Nine of their last ten games have seen both teams score, so possible fireworks could be expected in Cincinnati.
NYCFC's shape provides room for flexibility: a double-pivot midfield that provides defensive solidity and allows the three-attacking midfield to press onto Cincinnati's back line. NYCFC can punish Cincinnati's vulnerability to high-pressing with players who can operate between the lines. The wide men will most likely be counted upon to stretch Cincinnati's backline, and the NYCFC frontline could capitalize on the high goals-conceded trend of their opponents. It would, however, expect NYCFC to look for quick transitions - using pace in wide areas to get behind Cincinnati's wingbacks.
Head to Head
Cincinnati won 6, New York City win 7 and 2 matches ended in a draw.
The last time the two teams played, NYCFC managed to edge out a nail-biting 3-2 victory in October; NYCFC created relentless pressure on Cincinnati throughout the match and took advantage of the defensive gaps. NYCFC generally had a slight edge over their rival team, but as per history, these two teams always had close and high-scoring matches, with four out of the last five matches between them featuring over 2.5 goals. Thus, of late, Cincinnati wins the first goal, and playing at home has brought early pressure to disrupt NYCFC's rhythm.
Expert Betting Tips
NYCFC's flexibility in attack could well exploit the inconsistencies in Cincinnati's backline, and this may be a game that tips in favor of the visitors. Given that Cincinnati several times struggled to keep their lead in recent games, one might feel that with NYCFC's intense pressing, their opponents just might find that breakthrough needed for that critical first-round win.
This game is bound to see both sides get on the score sheet, as neither side has shown great levels of defense this season. Considering how both sides have hit BTTS in 9/10 and 6/6 respectively, this should continue here.
Both teams have seen high-scoring affairs in their recent matches, and the nature of the MLS playoffs - which is likely to open up and encourage risks to be taken. Indeed, this makes for a high-scoring encounter that is highly likely with 6 of Cincinnati's last 6 and 4 of NYCFC's last 5 crossing the 2.5 goal mark.
- GG (yes) @ 1.6 Odds
- GG & Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.71 Odds
- Draw @ 3.60 Odds
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