Major League Soccer (MLS) moneyline picks return for Week 19 after a brief hiatus due to the World Cup, featuring several exciting matchups.
Why it matters: This weekend's slate includes high-profile clashes and the return of star players, adding intensity to the matches.
Headlining the Saturday fixtures is a matchup between Nashville SC and Inter Miami, marking Lionel Messi's return following the passing of his father.
The weekend culminates with the Cascadia Cup showdown where the Seattle Sounders host the Vancouver Whitecaps, both teams looking to break out of their recent slumps.
Matchday 19 showcases other key games, including Atlanta United FC vs. New York Red Bulls and Orlando City SC vs. FC Cincinnati.
Driving the news: The anticipation builds as teams face off in what will likely be an action-packed weekend.
Atlanta United FC has struggled, failing to win since early May, and has conceded 10 goals in four matches since the World Cup break.
The New York Red Bulls, with a 31% chance of victory against Atlanta, aim to capitalize on their opponent's woes.
CF Montreal faces D.C. United, both teams sharing a history of draws, with a 27% probability for another stalemate.
State of play: Teams are vying for points as the season progresses, with several clubs in desperate need of a turnaround.
Charlotte FC enters the weekend with a 43% chance against Columbus Crew SC, aiming to bounce back after a recent loss.
Houston Dynamo, with a 55% probability of defeating LA Galaxy, seeks to extend their unbeaten streak at home.
Nashville SC and Inter Miami are expected to draw once again, as they have in their previous two meetings this season, with a 25% probability for another tie.
The big picture: The matchups are not just about points; they also involve personal narratives and team rivalries.
Seattle Sounders FC and Vancouver Whitecaps have faced challenges, with Seattle on a club-record six-match losing streak and Vancouver winless in seven.
Thomas Muller of Vancouver hopes to lead his team to victory at Lumen Field, where they seek only their second win in 16 visits.
Chicago Fire, buoyed by Robert Lewandowski's recent form, carry a 63% chance of victory against Portland Timbers, who have struggled on the road.
What they're saying: Analysts and fans alike have expressed excitement over the weekend's matchups.
“The return of Messi adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Nashville vs. Inter Miami match,” said a soccer analyst.
Fans are eager to see if Seattle can turn their fortunes around against a struggling Vancouver side.
“This weekend is filled with potential upsets and thrilling moments,” said a sports commentator.
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the teams' current form and probabilities for the matches.
Atlanta United FC has a 31% chance against New York Red Bulls, who are seeking consistency.
CF Montreal and D.C. United have drawn in eight of their last 12 matches, indicating a trend that may continue.
Houston Dynamo holds a 55% probability of winning at home, having accumulated 19 points from nine fixtures.
What's next: Fans should prepare for an exciting weekend filled with soccer action.
After the weekend's matches, teams will regroup and analyze their performances ahead of the next matchday.
LAFC fans can look forward to live streaming options for their upcoming matches, including the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
For those wanting to catch the action, MLS content is now available through a standard Apple TV+ subscription, simplifying access for fans.
Matchup
Pick
Kalshi Probability
Atlanta United FC vs New York Red Bulls
New York Red Bulls
31%
CF Montreal vs D.C. United
Draw
27%
Charlotte FC vs Columbus Crew SC
Charlotte FC
43%
Nashville SC vs Inter Miami FC
Draw
25%
As the MLS season heats up, fans can expect more thrilling encounters, with the stakes rising every week. The introduction of Apple TV+ as the primary streaming service for MLS matches makes it easier than ever for fans to stay connected to their favorite teams.