Since the start of June, there hasn't been a hotter team in the MLS than New York City FC (5-5-8, 20 Points). The men from the Bronx could move into the playoff picture for the first time in quite some time if they can take three points from Toronto FC (7-2-7, 23 Points) on Sunday afternoon.
ODDS ANALYSIS
A few weeks ago, NYCFC might have only just been a slight favorite in this match. In fact, it was only three weeks ago in which City was a +288 underdog on the road in Toronto.
In this case, New York City is an odds-on favorite at even money, which is incredibly surprising considering the fact that this was one of the worst teams in the league until a few weeks ago.
The total for this fixture is set at 2.5, and the vig on the under lays at -125.
KEY INJURIES
City is really hurting right now with injuries. At the back especially, George John is a long-term absentee, while Connor Brandt, Jason Hernandez and Josh Williams are all questionable for this one after sitting out the July 4 game with Montreal.
TFC has few concerns with Clement Simonin and Steven Caldwell as the only men out via injury.
However, because of the Gold Cup, Toronto is missing arguably its best player in Michael Bradley, who is serving as the captain of the United States squad. Jozy Altidore is also playing for the US Men's National team. Canada pilfered Ashtone Morgan and Jonathan Osorio.
The only major Gold Cup call up for NYCFC is Mix Diskerud.
QUOTE TO NOTE
"I think, for the most part, we're going to need the resources that we thought we would, the guys we brought in that we thought would fill some holes for us. As guys perform well, they get more opportunities and we have to adjust accordingly. And we will." – TFC manager Greg Vanney on his losses to international call-ups for the Gold Cup
RECENT FORM
As we stated earlier, NYCFC is on a tear. The team has won four of its last five matches, the sole loss being a home fixture with the crosstown Red Bulls. Strangely enough though, most of the damage has come on the road, and the team still has a -2 goal differential here at Yankee Stadium this year.
The Reds were brutalized in their first match post-call-ups, getting beaten 4-0 by a very good LA Galaxy side. Sure, it's easy to say that the team is 1-1-1 in its last three, but this version of TFC is much different than the one which beating Montreal 3-1 and drew against D.C. United 0-0.
TALKING TOTALS
City has been firing on all cylinders offensively, tallying at least one goal in six straight matches. Five of those six have cleared the total.
Two of Toronto's last three matches have gone past the total, though the offense hasn't had much help in that. The Reds have gone 188 minutes without a goal and another 26 without a goal on the run of play, which is good news for those hoping to cash in on the under.
ANALYSIS AND PREDICTION
The Reds might have the worst team in the MLS right now during this Gold Cup period. Not having four starters, two of which are designated players is devastating.
Yes, NYCFC only has one of its designated players as well, but David Silva is clearly the best player who is going to be on the pitch on this night.
In a time when City is really tearing up the MLS, we don't see Toronto getting in its way in the Empire State.
New York City FC 2, Toronto FC 0-
The MLS lines for this contest were first released by BookMaker Sportsbook with New York City FC lined as a +100 moneyline favorite and a total of 2.5 (under -125). Since this game can be seen by anyone with a TV, BookMaker will have a multitude of wagering options available for it. Outside of the normal lines, you can gamble on real-time moneylines, spreads and totals. Live betting is open during every step of this match!
Need to fund your account before the big game but don’t have your computer? No problem! BookMaker Sportsbook now offers a mobile betting cashier so you can deposit money directly from your smartphone. Don’t miss out on getting paid because you couldn’t bet. Click here and deposit at BookMaker now! The fixture between New York City FC and Toronto FC is scheduled for Sunday, July 12, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. ET at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY. The match will be televised live on ESPN.
