Philadelphia Union vs Columbus Crew: Wooden Spoon Drama at Subaru Park
May 17 sees the MLS Eastern Conference’s bottom two clash as Philadelphia Union take on Columbus Crew at Subaru Park. The Union are bottom of the East (6 points from 11 games), with Columbus 10th (12 points). Linebet in Kenya provides African-specific offers, which should suit all fans. In this match preview, we delve into the dynamics, tactics, team form, and potential outcomes of Columbus Crew vs. Philadelphia Union.
Team form and lineups
The Philadelphia Union (1-3-7) is on a downward slide. They have scored just 9 goals (lowest in the East) and conceded 17. Their only win was a month back, and they are winless in their last four matches, with a mix of draws and a single defeat. Columbus Crew (3-3-5) are seen as inconsistent but relatively solid, with a goal difference of 0. They have only conceded 16 times – the 5th-best defense in the MLS.
Tactical styles and key battles
The 4-4-2 diamond of Philadelphia is stale. The midfield can be bypassed, and the fullbacks aren’t deep enough. Columbus likes to play a 3-4-3 possession style game, passing through Jamal Thiaré and Max Arfsten. Columbus average 54% possession on the road; this should crowd out the Union.
Man vs man: Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia’s CB) vs Max Arfsten (Columbus’s forward). Arfsten has 3 goals and 4 assists; Harriel has been slow of late.
Football prediction and betting insights
The Union will go all out to finish the season with points. Columbus is clinical and methodical in attack. Looking at previous Columbus Crew vs Philadelphia Union results, the Crew have won three of the last five, and won 2-0 here last year.
- Columbus Crew wins: Good value here, with Philadelphia struggling for victories in recent games.
- Under 2.5 goals: Columbus matches average 2.3 goals. Philadelphia is scoring drought-stricken.
- Final 0-2 for Columbus: Likely a Crew clean sheet as the Union has gone 5 games without scoring a goal.