Orlando City vs Columbus Crew Predictions

Orlando City sit two places and five points above Sunday’s guests Columbus Crew and have played one game fewer this season than their Eastern Conference rivals, but the hosts midweek US Open Cup tie against New York City could lead to some tired legs in the second half and allow Columbus Crew to end their losing streak.

Orlando City made the tricky trip to Pennsylvania to face the Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia Union last weekend, where an early goal for the hosts saw the Florida club trail at halftime. Dwyer equalised for the visitors in the sixty-seventh minute and a goal from Patino nine minutes from time looked to have won the game for Orlando City. However, in the final minute of the ninety Przybylko rescued a point for the hosts and, on the balance of play, it was the least Philadelphia Union deserved.

Columbus Crew had the home advantage last time out against Seattle Sounders but despite opening the scoring in the thirteenth minute via a Santos penalty the hosts ended up being beaten once again. Columbus Crew lead at the break but were pegged back in the fifty-sixth minute after giving away a penalty and then deep into stoppage time Seattle Sounders scored a dramatic winning goal to pinch all three points at the death.

The recent head to head record between these two clubs and the statistics from both teams last six matches, all point towards under 2.5 goals being scored in Sunday’s game and Orlando City claiming all three points. Four of the last six meetings between these two clubs have produced under 2.5 goals and three of the last six encounters between the pair have ended in a win to nil. Orlando City have won three of their last six matches in all competitions, while Columbus Crew have lost their last five matches in league and cup. Two of Orlando City’s last four and four of Columbus Crew’s last six matches have produced under 2.5 goals, which is why we’re backing a narrow 1-0 win for the hosts this weekend.

Nani top scores for Orlando City this season with eight goals, while Zardes leads the way for Columbus Crew with six goals in the MLS and is due to return to the side following international duty. We’re confident that under 2.5 goals will be scored in Sunday’s game and have predicted a final scoreline of 1-0 to Orlando City. The hosts are the form favourites heading into kick-off and have won the last two meetings between the pair, while Columbus Crew have lost their last four MLS games and have failed to score in three of those matches.