As the only two teams in the southeast, it’s only natural that there would be a rivalry between Atlanta United and Orlando City SC. However, while there is a lot of animosity between fans of the two teams, it hasn’t been much of a rivalry. Atlanta has won five of the six meetings between these clubs with the other match ending as a draw. Additionally, the Five Stripes have shut the Lions out on four occasions.
Don't miss the Major League Soccer action from Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida at 8 p.m. ET on Friday, August 23, 2019. Catch every moment of the match live on ESPN.
MLS Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Orlando City SC +218
Atlanta United +112
Draw +279
Over/Under 3
Odds Analysis
A Chicago Fire win over the Philadelphia Union last week opened the door for Atlanta United to move into first place in the Eastern Conference, and the Five Stripes took full advantage. Atlanta notched their third straight victory and fifth in six games to move into the top spot, and that’s where they hope to stay in order to grab a first-round bye in the MLS playoffs.
Last week’s road win over Portland was an impressive one. Atlanta was short-handed and on the road with only a couple days rest, but the Five Stripes managed to secure a 2-0 win in a tough spot. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez scored in the 14th minute to put the visitors ahead and then Josef Martinez notched a goal just after halftime.
Orlando City have yet to make the playoffs since entering the league in 2015. The Lions are desperate to make their first ever postseason appearance, and a win here is crucial to that endeavor. They are currently tied with Montreal and Toronto for the final playoff spot with 34 points.
We’ve seen the Lions register a result in each of their last four games and seven of their last nine games overall. Their defense has been impeccable in recent weeks, as Orlando City shut out both FC Dallas and Sporting Kansas City in victories and secured 1-1 road draws with both Toronto and Minnesota United.
Key Absences
The visitors won’t have defender Brek Shea for the rest of the season after he tore his ACL, and it appears that three other players will miss the match for Atlanta United. Forward Brandon Vazquez and midfielder Eric Remedi are dealing with hip injuries, while defender Franco Escobar has an upper leg injury. Defender Mikey Ambrose is questionable with a strained hamstring.
Defenders Joao Moutinho and Ruan are likely to miss this match due to hamstring injuries. Orlando City might not have midfielder Cristian Higuita either due to a hamstring issue.
Player to Watch
Josef Martinez has had another incredible season. He set the single season scoring record in 2018, and he just set another record this year. Martinez has now scored in 11 straight matches, smashing the previous record. He has 16 goals in that stretch, erasing a disappointing start to the season. His 21 goals are the second-most in the league.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
The Five Stripes are favored despite being on the road. Atlanta United have rediscovered last year’s form after looking lost the first two months of the season, and Pity Martinez has been playing inspired football too. Ezequiel Barco has been a great table setter, and Brad Guzan continues to be excellent in goal.
Atlanta are playing great, and I think they will be too strong for Orlando. This team finally gets some well-deserved rest, and the Five Stripes will take advantage.
Major League Soccer Odds: Atlanta United 2, Orlando City SC 0
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