Published Nov 12, 4:47am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Nov 12, 4:47am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Nov 12, 4:47am ET
The high-pressure action in the MLS Playoffs steps up a gear when the Eastern Conference semi-finals get underway on Nov 23. You can find our FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami picks here.
Inter Miami remain among the favorites to win the MLS Cup this season. Lionel Messi's side overcame Nashville SC in the previous round, eventually booking their semi-final spot with a 4-0 win in Game Three.
FC Cincinnati finished a place higher than Inter Miami during the regular season. However, they needed all three games to overcome a tricky opponent in the form of the Columbus Crew in the opening round.
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|---|---|
| FC Cincinnati | +180 |
| The Draw | +287 |
| Inter Miami | +130 |
Home advantage could prove crucial in the MLS Playoffs this season. FC Cincinnati will have the advantage of playing in front of their home fans against Inter Miami, and they will gain confidence after winning both home matches against the Crew in the opening round.
Their spot in the final four was secured in dramatic fashion, as Brenner scored twice in the final 30 minutes of Game Three against Columbus. Cincinnati have been reliable in their home matches this season, winning eleven of their 19 games.
It should also be worth noting that they have excelled defensively in Ohio. That is evident after conceding just 1.05 goals per game, and keeping clean sheets in 32% of their matches.
Inter Miami have been the long-time favorites to win the MLS Cup this season. However, their campaign hasn't been without its setbacks, as they needed all three games to overcome Nashville in the opening round.
But, they held their nerve in the concluding game in the series, securing a dominant 4-0 home win. Lionel Messi continued his stunning season by netting twice in that win, which takes his tally for the season to 34.
However, it is challenging to overlook Inter's troublesome record on the road. Inter have won just 44% of their away matches, and they have allowed 1.72 goals per game. The fact that they have kept clean sheets in just 17% of their away matches is a major concern.
| TOTAL | Cincinnati | Inter Miami | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 13 | 5 | 5 | 3 |
| Goals | 47 | 25 | 22 |
This looks set to be a competitive semi-final clash in the Eastern Conference. However, it could be worth siding with the better defensive team coming out on top when making FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami picks.
Cincinnati have avoided defeat in their last two matches against Inter, keeping clean sheets in both fixtures.
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Pick
FC Cincinnati (+180)
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