Columbus Crew (16-9-9) vs. Los Angeles FC (14-10-10)
Columbus Crew vs. Los Angeles FC 12/9/23 – The Columbus Crew take on Los Angeles FC in a crucial late-season MLS matchup. With the playoffs fast approaching, both teams will be looking to solidify their standings and gathering momentum going into the postseason. This game has major implications for seeding, so expect a playoff atmosphere. Free MLS parlay picks available for this exciting contest.
Columbus attack is led by Cucho Hernandez and Lucas Zelarayan. Hernandez has netted 16 goals so far this season using both aerial ability and finishing skill to find the back of the net regularly, while Zelarayan ranks among MLS leaders with 11 assists this year – they make for an unstoppable duo which poses a formidable threat against Los Angeles defenders.
Los Angeles relies heavily on Carlos Vela and Denis Bouanga for offense, with Vela providing 12 assists while Bouanga leads with 20 goals this year. Bouanga utilizes his speed and technical ability to create space for shots that give Columbus defense fits; Bouanga must remain sharp if Los Angeles wishes to stay competitive against Columbus’ solid defensive effort.
Columbus Crew vs. Los Angeles FC 12/9/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Lower.com Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: |
Patrick Schulte GK vs. John McCarthy GK
Technically-sound keeper has shown tremendous shot-stopping ability, racking up 90 saves while maintaining outstanding positioning. His decision making and distribution have also taken strides forward in 2022. As a result, Schulte has earned 8 clean sheets and helped Columbus become formidable defensively. His leadership in organizing the backline has played no small part either. Still, for all of Schulte’s individual quality, the Los Angeles attack presents a stiff test. The combination of Bouanga and Vela has unlocked defenses consistently, meaning Schulte must bring his best. If he can make crucial reaction saves and limit rebounds, Columbus’ chances of victory rise significantly.
For Los Angeles goalkeeper John McCarthy, Columbus boasts two elite attackers in capable of magic. McCarthy’s 68 saves on the year make clear he’s faced no shortage of shots. Teams have targeted Los Angeles’ less reliable backline and McCarthy has admirably mitigated that damage. Yet McCarthy’s 31 goals allowed reveal he can still be exposed as the last line of defense. McCarthy must match Schulte’s alertness and positioning. Additionally, cutting out careless turnovers will limit Columbus’ transition opportunities. If McCarthy holds firm, Los Angeles can hang around. If not, Columbus might run rampant on the scoresheet Saturday night.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: Columbus Crew +155, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting odds are slightly in favor of Columbus Crew at +155, indicating a closely contested match. The over/under set at 2.5 goals suggests that the game could see a fair number of goals, given the offensive talents of both teams.
Columbus Crew Betting Trends
Columbus has gone 8-9 against the spread in away matchups this season. This suggests they have struggled to consistently cover margins on the road. Meanwhile, 7 of their last 17 home games have gone over the projected point total. The Crew’s offense has shown flashes of explosiveness at Lower.com Field.
Los Angeles FC Betting Trends
For Los Angeles, their record stands at 8-8 against the road spread in 2022. So while not overtly strong or weak in this area, they have trended toward more high-scoring affairs recently. Specifically, the over has hit in 9 of their last 17 road contests. Their defensive issues could be amplified away from home.
Columbus Crew vs. Los Angeles FC 12/9/23 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ current form and overall strengths, this match promises to be a tight contest. Columbus Crew has the home advantage and a solid attacking lineup, but LAFC’s balanced offensive and defensive tactics make them a strong contender.
For bettors, this match presents various intriguing possibilities. Exploring prop bets on goal scorers or the over/under market could be rewarding. Given the strengths of both teams, this game is a prime focus for top-rated sports picks, offering insights into team dynamics and player performances.
Free Pick and Prediction: Columbus Crew 2, Los Angeles FC 2.