It’s game day three of the 2021 MLS season, and we’ edging slowly back to something that resembles the normality we once knew and loved. It doesn’t matter if we’re in a pandemic or the ‘new normal’ - one thing that’s certain is CaptainGambling is on hand to bring out the best MLS tips every weekend.
The Champs Are Back!
For our MLS betting tips today, we’ll be focussing on Saturday’s game between CF Montreal and Columbus Crew. It’s the first road game for the 2020 MLS Cup Champions, who will be looking to get properly off the mark following a slow start.
CF Montreal
CF Montreal have gotten of to a decent start to the MLS 2021 season, with four points from their first two games. Their opening games was an absolutely thriller, as they beat Toronto 4-2 in the Canadian Classique. They looked lethal up top in their first road game of the season, but the defensive frailties left them exposed as they drew 2-2 away to Nashville. The six goals scored in the opening two games have come from six different goalscorers, which shows the frightening attacking threat Montreal posses as a unit.
Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew had a delayed start to their MLS season due to their exploits in the CONCACAF Champions League at the start of the month. It was a somewhat underwhelming start of the reigning champs, as they could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to Philadelphia. Ahead of this game they have a CONCACAF Champions League quarter final against heavyweights Monterrey, so that may hinder their chances on Saturday against a dangerous Montrael side.
Head to Head
Despite ultimately lifting the cup, Columbus Crew were beaten at home by CF Montreal when these sides met back in October. Their last meeting in Montreal back in 2019 though, ended in a 2-1 victory for the Crew. If we look at the last five meetings, Montreal have the edge, with three wins to Columbus’ two. There hasn’t been a tied game between these teams since 2016, and there has only been two ties in their entire history - so we can expect a winner on Saturday.
Statistical Highlights
At the bottom of this page you can find some statistical highlights and information. These include the results from the last five meetings between CF Montreal and Columbus Crew as well as both teams’ stats so far this season.
Our Betting Tip for Today
Having considered everything above, we’re backing a home win for CF Montreal on Saturday.
Montreal to Topple the Champs
In terms of pound for pound quality, Columbus Crew probably have more - they didn’t win the cup last season without good reason. However, they looked far from their best against Philadelphia in their 0-0. Furthermore Montreal, while definitely frail, have looked very dangerous up top, particularly with the service provided by Victor Wanyama. The deciding factor will be Columbus Crew’s Thursday night Champions League obligations though, as Monterrey will eat up most of their energy. Our pick for today is therefore to back a Montreal win at odds of +210 with Bet365.
