MLS Predictions - Expert MLS Betting Picks for February 21

MLS

(209813) Chicago Fire at (209814) Columbus Crew

Interesting to note, Columbus chose not to play any preseason matches and instead just focused on training.  Odd considering most teams played 4-5 matches.  Chicago had an encouraging preseason with three wins, two draws and two losses, neither of which was by more than one goal.

New manager Gregg Berhalter has changed up the roster a ton with more than half of the starting XI new this season.  That’s his M.O. as he tries to put together a very balanced roster which usually helps teams tremendously in the midfield and backline, two areas Chicago desperately needed improvement.  

The concern is with so many new faces in town, it may take some time for the players to gel on the field, but that’s the reason Berhalter went with six preseason matches to build that chemistry and from what I’ve seen, they should be able to hit the ground running this season.

Columbus lost Cucho Hernandez and that immediately lessens their offensive prowess.  Over the last two transfer windows, Columbus has traded away their three best players and have replaced none of them.  Eventually that is going to catch up.

This match opened Columbus -1.25 which has fallen to -1.0.  While we missed the best number, I still see value on Chicago here at +1.0 knowing we need to lose by two goals to lose this wager.

TAKE CHICAGO +1.0

Line Parameter: Play good to -120

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