Published Mar 19, 4:15am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 19, 4:15am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Mar 19, 4:15am ET
The red-hot LAFC are back in MLS action on March 21, as they chase a fifth straight win when they travel to Austin.
LAFC have recorded four straight wins to start the new season, but they only sit second in the Western Conference. Austin will be aiming to respond after a defeat last time out.
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|---|---|
| Austin FC | +269 |
| The Draw | +250 |
| LAFC | +103 |
A playoff finish will be the target for Austin FC this season, meaning that there will be pressure on Nico Estevez to get a response from his side this weekend.
Austin played a counter-attacking style in a defeat against Real Salt Lake last weekend, but they couldn't hold on to a 1-0 advantage. In the final third, Austin created few clear scoring chances, registering just four shots on target from eight attempts.
Defensive issues have already been apparent in 2026, as they have conceded 1.75 goals from an xGA of 1.91. A more reliable performance from their backline will be required to stand any chance against LAFC.
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It has been an incredibly efficient start to the new season for LAFC, as they have recorded four straight wins to start the campaign. Last weekend, they dominated from start to finish against St. Louis, but were forced to wait until the final 20 minutes to score both goals.
David Martinez has enjoyed an excellent start to the season, scoring twice in four appearances.
While all eyes will be on their offensive players, it is worth noting that LAFC have excelled defensively, allowing a low xGA of 1.54 and keeping clean sheets in each of their four fixtures in 2026.
| TOTAL | Austin | LAFC | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 15 | 4 | 9 | 2 |
| Goals | 43 | 15 | 28 |
Austin's inability to create chances, and LAFC's excellent defensive record points to the most logical outcome being an away victory on Saturday.
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LAFC
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