Published Feb 19, 4:27am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 19, 4:27am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 19, 4:27am ET
The opening weekend of the MLS season continues on Feb 22 when the LA Galaxy host New York City FC. Find the odds and our picks for the clash here.
Last season was ultimately a disappointing campaign for the Galaxy, as they missed out on the playoffs just a year after winning the MLS Cup.
New York City FC continued to progress, finishing in the playoff spots in the Eastern Conference.
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|
|---|---|
| LA Galaxy | +144 |
| The Draw | +279 |
| NYCFC | +159 |
The Galaxy endured no luck in their title defense in 2025, losing star playmaker Riqui Puig before the start of the season. History has repeated itself this year, with the Spaniard ruled out for the year with another ACL tear.
However, his Designated Player spot has been filled by talented Brazilian striker Joao Klauss. The forward netted 27 goals for St. Louis. Former MLS Defender of the Year Jakob Glesnes has also arrived, while Justin Haak is a useful utility player following a breakout year with NYCFC.
Experienced midfielder Diego Fagundez has departed the Galaxy during the off-season.
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NYCFC enjoyed a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Final last term, indicating what this team is capable of achieving when performing at their very best.
U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese will be hoping for an excellent season to secure his starting berth for the national side at the World Cup.
Nicolas Fernandez Mercau will form an important relationship at the top of the field alongside Talles Magno. Kai Trewin is the only notable arrival, with the Australian set to team up with national teammate Aiden O’Neill.
| TOTAL | LA Galaxy | NYCFC | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 10 | 4 | 5 | 1 |
| Goals | 27 | 15 | 12 |
New York City FC may have upset the odds to make a run at the Eastern Conference title last term, but they look light across the field. The Galaxy have strengthened impressively during the off-season, and their newfound defensive cover could be the key to getting a win on the opening night.
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Pick
LA Galaxy
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