MLS Cup final LAFC vs Philadelphia Union odds and predictions: Who is the favorite?

A new name will be engraved onto the MLS Cup this weekend - LAFC and Philadelphia Union have both made it to the final for the first time. While both teams are experienced enough not to suffer stage fright on the big stage, they will both be equally as keen to get their hands on the trophy and nerves could end up playing a part in who does.

LAFC vs Philadelphia: form book

LAFC finished the regular season top of the Western Conference on 67 points. Philadelphia ended top of the Eastern Conference also on 67 points but LAFC posted 21 wins compared to the Union’s 19. Philadelphia however, had far better goal difference figures - Jim Curtin’s team scored 72 goals and conceded just 26 - ending with the best attacking and defensive records out of all of the teams in both Conferences.

Looking at the head-to-head results, the last three meetings were close and all ended level. The most recent meeting between the two, in Los Angeles back in May, ended in a 2-2 draw but with LAFC dominating in both possession and attempts on goal.

As for home and away form, LAFC ended on 13-2-2 when playing at their Banc of California stadium, where Saturday’s final will be played while Philadelphia have the third-best record in the league on the road (behind Montreal and NYCFC) with 7-5-5.

Betting odds

Playing in front of a home crowd will obviously give LAFC a huge advantage and that is reflected in the betting odds. Steve Cherundolo’s team are currently at +125 to +140 to lift the Cup. Philadelphia are +290 to +320 to win on Saturday with odds for a draw after 90 minutes at +290.

Prediction

LAFC 2-1 Philadelphia