FC Dallas vs. Los Angeles FC – Prediction, Betting Tips and Odds

The MLS regular season is really getting underway and it would not be wrong at all to say that this clash between FC Dallas and Los Angeles FC on September 22, 2024 will have huge implications for both sides. FC Dallas starts 11th in the West and is fighting to stay above the playoff line, while LAFC is currently in 3rd place and is trying to secure a high postseason spot despite a recent dip in form. After their disappointing results, this match is of great importance for both teams to improve on their recent performances and gain momentum for the final stages of the season.

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FC Dallas

FC Dallas has 9 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses, putting them in 11th place in the Western Conference. They are still mathematically in the playoff race, but their last 5 games reflect an inconsistent season: 1 win, 1 draw, and 3 losses. They lost their last game 3-2 away at Real Salt Lake, playing in a 3-4-3 formation. Despite an improved attacking performance – with goals from Jesus Ferreira and Alan Velasco – their defense proved to be porous, failing to capitalize on 55% possession and securing points. Key stats from their last game include 3 big chances, 5 shots on goal, and 4 saves by the goalkeeper, but their defense continues to struggle, as evidenced by the three goals they conceded. Additionally, Dallas has had trouble winning games recently, as they have failed to win 3 games and have only kept a clean sheet once in their last eight games.

However, they have been productive on offense, with a streak of goals from both teams in 6 of their last 8 meetings making them a team that can always cause problems for their opponents, but is always vulnerable on defense.

Lately, Dallas has deployed a 3-4-3 system that allows for flexibility but also tends to open them up defensively, especially for teams working the wide areas. The midfield duo will thrive on LAFC's central dominance, while the full-backs will need to cover the flanks as LAFC poses a threat on the flanks. Jesus Ferreira and Alan Velasco remain key players for Dallas' attack, with Ferreira's finishing ability and Velasco's creativity being their main weapons. Combining these two could exploit LAFC's relatively low success in defensive tackles, as Dallas typically plays down the wings and crosses the ball into the box.

Defense has always been a problem for the Dallas team when it comes to holding leads and closing out games. They tend to lose focus a bit, especially towards the end, which is reflected in their inability to win games where they are leading or competitive early in the game.

Los Angeles FC

LAFC sits 3rd in the Western Conference with an overall record of 14 wins, 7 draws and 7 losses, but is not in great form, having failed to win any of their last four games. Their last game ended in a 1-1 home draw with Austin FC, with David Martinez scoring the goal. With 61% possession, LAFC – toothless in attack – has only managed one big chance and six shots on goal, indicating a current lack of penetration.

Their defensive organization has also shown some weaknesses, as they won just 41% of defensive tackles in their last game – a stat that is a little concerning for a team with aspirations to challenge for the top spots in the conference. However, under head coach Steve Cherundolo, LAFC remains tactically disciplined and its ability to control games through possession and limit chances remains one of its key strengths.

This is also true considering that most of LAFC's recent games have been low-scoring, with less than 2.5 goals in 4 of their last 5 games. This could be the result of a more conservative approach; it would be crucial if they wanted to keep a team like FC Dallas at bay, whose approach is mainly to create chaos in open games.

LAFC played in a 4-3-3 structure, a system designed to dominate play through the midfield and press high to force turnovers. Their game plan will likely focus on keeping possession – their 61% against Austin proves this – and trying to exploit any gaps left by Dallas' fullbacks in transition. David Martinez will once again be a focal point in attack. His shape in front of goal and the way he combines play will be very important, especially considering the wingers and fullbacks give LAFC width. The midfield trio of Ilie Sánchez, Kellyn Acosta and Timothy Tillman will play a key role in setting the tempo. LAFC's weak offense of late, which only created one big chance in the last game, could become a problem if Dallas can defend compactly. Their tendency to pile up cards is also a reason why discipline in moments of pressure could be their undoing.

Direct comparison

All of this speaks to a LAFC team that has a good head-to-head record with Dallas, winning 6 to 3 against Dallas, while drawing 3. LAFC has been consistently better at this game throughout history, including a 1-0 win the last time the teams met in June 2024.

Expert betting tips

FC Dallas has been involved in high-scoring games of late, and LAFC is always a threat despite their struggles, and this is further reinforced by Dallas' recent trend, where both teams have scored goals in 6 of their last 8 games.

Both teams have tended to keep the number of corners below this number, making it likely that the game will fall below this number again.

LAFC has scored the first goal in four of the last five meetings against Dallas and, given their better head-to-head record, are clearly the favorites to score the first goal again this time.

• Under 10.5 corners 1.607 odds
• Away team scores the first goal @ odds 1.77
• GG (Yes) @ 1.61 odds