New York City FC have some reinforcements in Frank Lampard, Andoni Iraola and Angelino in their bid to climb to the top of the Eastern Conference. To continue moving up, New York City have to deal with the visiting Toronto FC at Yankee Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Meanwhile, Toronto won’t be having two of their top players in Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore due to international duty. But the presence of the excellent Sebastian Giovinco will always give them a fighting chance.
Think New York FC continue their ascent to the top of the Eastern Conference? Read on as we break down Sunday’s matinee action.
Sunday’s going to be a great day for sports action. Hours after New York City FC and Toronto FC take the field, the Ultimate Fighter Season 21 Finale will be underway over at Las Vegas. Check out the complete preview of the TUF 21 Finale headlined by Jake Ellenberger vs. Stephen Thompson here.
[sc:Soccer ]New York City FC vs. Toronto FC Preview
Where: Yankee Stadium, New York City, NY
When: Sunday, July 12, 3:00 PM ET
Line: New York City FC -111 vs. Toronto FC +240, tie +245; total 2.5 – view all MLS lines
Betting on New York City FC
New York City FC have struggled greatly at home in Yankee Stadium. They have won just two of their nine home matches in their MLS debut. But New York City have been on fire recently, winning four of their last five matches. Included in those wins is a 2-0 victory over Toronto.
[sc:Soccer240banner ]Star striker and designated player David Villa was spectacular in the victory against Toronto, netting both goals (one from the spot) of the match. Midfielder Mehdi Ballouchy assisted in Villa’s second goal to essentially ice the game in the 57th minute. Look for Villa to run roughshod against Toronto’s defense. He’s in fine form scoring five goals in his last four matches.
Villa may be even more dangerous now with the arrival of English legend Frank Lampard, who scored six goals and an assist playing with Manchester City in the Premier League last season. Lampard isn’t just a scorer; he’s also an excellent set-up man who could help Villa finish scoring chances.
Lampard isn’t the only addition to the New York City roster. Spanish fullbacks Andoni Iraola and Angelino have been added to bolster New York City’s defense that has been thin this season. New York City FC have been outscored 23-20 this season.
Betting on Toronto FC
Toronto FC got absolutely hammered last weekend in a 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy. Scoring goals may remain a problem for the Reds with the absence of two of their top players in Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore due to international duty. Bradley has been an important midfield general keeping Toronto’s play going, while Altidore has netted six goals this season.
Without Altidore and Bradley, Sebastian Giovinco will need to step up big-time. He leads the Reds with eight goals and seven assists this season. If he can’t finish his own scoring chances, then perhaps he can set up a couple of teammates such as Robbie Findley and Benoit Cheyrou who each have a goal this season.
New York City FC have a rather weak midfield, while their reinforcement in Frank Lampard may not be at his best right out of the gates. Giovinco dominating the midfield with Findley and Cheyrou will be crucial to find openings against a sketchy New York City defense.
The Reds are 4-2-1 in their last six matches on the road.
Writer’s Prediction
New York City FC (-111) take a 2-1 victory. Create a betting account now and get in on the weekend’s biggest soccer action.
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