On Saturday, September 7th, 2024, Lower.com Field will be the venue for Major League Soccer action as Columbus Crew hosts Seattle Sounders FC for a Round 1 clash at 4:30 CT.
Both teams are eager and determined to secure a win and kick off their campaigns on a positive note, setting the stage for an intense and thrilling match.
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The Columbus Crew and Seattle Sounders are set to clash in Major League Soccer in their first meeting since 2021.
Columbus Crew, currently in fourth place with 49 points, is known for its potent offense, having scored 52 goals. They are also in good form, having won 3 of their last 5 matches.
On the other hand, Seattle Sounders FC, currently in 12th place with 40 points, aims to improve its position in the standings. They have been struggling recently, with only one win in their last five matches.
The Crew, riding high on their recent achievements, have been in excellent form, winning their last eight competitive matches, including lifting the Leagues Cup for the first time with a 3-1 victory over Los Angeles FC.
Currently positioned third in the Eastern Conference with 49 points, the Columbus Crew have showcased their defensive prowess by conceding just 24 goals, the second-best record in the league.
Their offensive performance is equally impressive, with 52 goals scored in 25 MLS matches.
On the other hand, the Seattle Sounders, determined to bounce back from recent defeats, are ready to give it their all.
They come into this game after losing to Los Angeles FC in the US Open Cup and Portland Timbers in their most recent MLS outing. With 40 points from 27 matches, Seattle currently occupies the eighth place in the Western Conference.
Historically, the visitors have enjoyed success in Columbus, winning five games, drawing one, and losing only three of their nine visits.
Despite the vistiors’ success in Columbus, the Crew are the favorites in this match. Oddsmakers have priced them at -111 to win this game, indicating an implied probability of 55%.
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Next, let’s take a look at the total goals options for this upcoming match.
The Columbus Crew will miss reserve goalkeeper Evan Bush due to a wrist injury. Upfront, Cucho Hernandez, with 13 goals and 9 assists this season, is expected to start alongside Christian Ramirez.
Diego Rossi, who scored in the last game, is likely to start behind the attacking duo. He has boosted the team with his 21 goals in 25 MLS appearances.
The Sounders will be without midfielder Braudilio Rodrigues due to a hamstring injury, sidelining him until mid-September.
There’s a chance that young winger Georgi Minoungou, recently signed from Tacoma Defiance, could make his first start after two appearances off the bench.
Columbus Crew are currently in good form, showcasing strong defensive resilience and attacking prowess.
Their solid defense and goal-scoring ability may prove too much for the struggling Seattle Sounders, who have struggled to score while conceding goals in their last two matches.
Given Columbus Crew’s solid goal-scoring potential and the likelihood of Seattle Sounders FC contributing to the scoreline, the option Over 2.5 at -115 is appealing for those anticipating a high-scoring game.
You’ll check back here regularly to stay updated on the news.
Summary
Tony is a pro sports journalist who dedicates most of his free time to watching the latest matches and games on TV. Tony enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and basketball when he's not participating in sports-related activities or seeing his friends. In addition to being a sports expert, Tony has extensive knowledge of finances and accounting. He leverages this expertise to provide insightful betting analysis for all sports, identifying value based on overlooked factors.
Education
Tony graduated with honors from NM State University, earning a BA in Mass Communications and Journalism. During his time at the university, he actively participated in organizing Study Abroad Fairs and was a dedicated member of the College Democrats.
Tony also volunteered at the student-run radio station (KRUX), contributing to the success of its annual fundraising event, KRUXFest.
Furthermore, he served as a volunteer cameraman for the student-run news station (KRWG22) twice a week and held the position of sports editor for the student newspaper.
Apart from his academic and extracurricular accomplishments, Tony also enjoyed participating in student-run intramurals, playing on both basketball and flag football teams.
Professional Achievements
New Mexico Press Association Scholarship
Runner-Up, Page Design, Associated College Press/ College Media Advisers
Runner-Up, Top College Newspaper Columnist, Associated College Press/ College Media Advisers
VMC Employee of the Month