FC Cincinnati return to TQL Stadium on Wednesday looking to get back on track after a difficult run of results, with Pat Noonan's side aiming to strengthen their position in the Eastern Conference against D.C. United.
The hosts have endured a frustrating spell despite scoring freely this season, losing 2-0 to Columbus Crew in their most recent outing.
Cincinnati have the attacking quality to trouble most MLS defenses, but their own defensive issues have made it difficult to turn goals into points.
D.C. United also arrive after a disappointing result, having suffered a 4-1 defeat to Orlando City.
René Weiler's side have struggled for consistency and they face a difficult challenge against a Cincinnati team that has scored 60 league goals this season.
FC Cincinnati vs. D.C. United betting picks and predictions
FC Cincinnati ML (-161)
The hosts have scored 60 goals in MLS this season, with Kévin Denkey leading the way on 17 and Evander contributing 13. Evander has also registered 10 assists, underlining the creative threat Cincinnati can carry in the final third.
However, their recent form is a concern. They have lost their last two matches at home and have conceded regularly during a difficult run, so they cannot afford to switch off defensively.
D.C. United were beaten 4-1 by Orlando in their most recent outing and have conceded three plus goals in several recent matches.
Their defensive problems could prove costly against a Cincinnati attack that has the individual quality to punish mistakes.
Cincinnati are not a risk-free selection, but home advantage and their greater attacking output make the moneyline the preferred option.
Over 3.5 total goals (-161)
Cincinnati's last six league results have included a 3-2 defeat to New England, a 3-1 win over Atlanta United, a 3-1 loss to CF Montréal, a 2-2 draw with Houston Dynamo and a 3-3 draw with Charlotte FC.
Their attacking output has been impressive, but they have struggled to keep opponents quiet.
D.C. United have also been involved in open contests. Their recent results include a 4-1 loss to Orlando , a 2-1 win over New York Red Bulls and a 4-0 defeat to Inter Miami.
Cincinnati have averaged more than four goals per game across their MLS campaign, while D.C. United have conceded 51 goals.
The hosts should create chances, but their defensive record gives the visitors opportunities to contribute.
Tai Baribo to score anytime (+125)
D.C. United may be the underdogs, but Tai Baribo remains a player capable of making an impact in front of goal.
The forward has scored 16 MLS goals this season, making him one of the visitors' most important attacking players.
Cincinnati's defensive record offers encouragement for the visitors, they have conceded no fewer than 70 league goals this season.
Baribo also found the net in D.C. United's recent 4-1 loss to Orlando , demonstrating that he can still produce offensively even when his team struggles overall.
The anytime goalscorer market offers an alternative to backing Cincinnati's attacking players. If D.C. United can exploit the space left by the hosts, Baribo has the quality to take advantage.
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FC Cincinnati vs. D.C. United odds
FC Cincinnati | -196 |
Tie | +400 |
DC United | +375 |
FC Cincinnati vs. D.C. United player props
Anytime goalscorer
Kévin Denkey (FC Cincinnati) | -164 |
Evander Ferreira (FC Cincinnati) | -139 |
Ayoub Jabbari (FC Cincinnati) | +110 |
Tai Baribo (D.C. United) | +125 |
Tom Barlow (FC Cincinnati) | +125 |
Stefan Chirila (FC Cincinnati) | +137 |
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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
