The Union have the most prolific offense in the East with 32 goals scored in 19 games. Despite lacking any marquee names, they’ve managed to create such a formidable offense thanks to an all-around team effort. They already have 12 different players score this season. The Union have been especially prolific at home. They have scored at least twice in all but two of their 10 home games to date, a big reason why they have the East’s best home record (seven wins, two draws, one loss).
The Red Bulls aren’t too shabby themselves, with 30 goals in 20 games. However, they’ve struggled in front of goal away from home. Yes, they’ve scored nine goals in their last five road games, but almost all of those came in a fluky 7-0 thrashing of rivals NYCFC. That win is their only one on the road thus far this season.
Neither team is an especially good defensive unit. Even with an impressive home-field advantage, the Union still give up way too many goals. They have surrendered at least two goals in each of their last four games against non-DC United opponents at home.
But despite giving up slightly fewer goals on a per game basis than the Union, the Red Bulls are still worse at the back when they’re away from home. They have kept just one clean sheet on the road this season. That mediocre defense coupled with a misfiring attack has led to the Red Bulls losing seven of their 10 away games this season – the second-most in the entire MLS.
Writer’s Prediction: The Union (+138) just beat out the Red Bulls, 2-1.
