- Philadelphia Union have drawn one, won two, lost two of their last five MLS games (DWWLL).
- New York Red Bulls have had a similar mixed run of results, Win, Draw, Draw, Draw (WDDD).
- Union have won three, drawn one and lost just one of the last five head-to-head meetings of these two clubs.
No love lost between northeastern rivals
A close, cagey battle is expected when Philadelphia Union and New York Red Bulls renew their rivalry in the first of two meetings in four days on Saturday. Our Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bull prediction suggests an evenly fought contest given both teams' defensive strengths. These two squads have met 48 times in all competitions since 2010 and the Union have the better of the head-to-head record at 19-14 with 15 draws.
Jim Curtin’s Union have a great record in this fixture and will always give their all to press high up the field and win the ball back in dangerous areas where they are adept at creating chances.
They are an organised and defensively solid unit that has made the most of their young talent. For supporters interested in the Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bull preview, it's worth noting how key players like Andre Blake, Jakob Glesnes, and Kai Wagner have shaped past meetings.
Goalkeeper Andre Blake remains a bedrock at the back and with Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner at the heart of their defence, the Union can usually keep games close even if they fail to score.
New York Red Bulls are also well-organised and have the tactical base of a European club, but are not as high-pressing or as positive as their hosts.
Bradley Carnell’s team are more conservative away from home and can be very difficult to break down.
The Red Bulls are likely to play with Frankie Amaya dictating the flow of the game from midfield and Elias Manoel posing a lively threat up top.
Union can justify their slight favorites tag
This Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bull prediction is supported by the fact that Philadelphia are favorites at +105 to beat New York Red Bulls, who are +235 to spring an upset and the Draw is +225. The Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bull odds reflect how hard it is to separate these clubs, which is why we are leaning towards a tie or overtime in this contest that referee Joshua Encarnación will surely have his hands full in.
Both teams are currently struggling to finish off chances and the recent defensive displays of these squads suggests the Under 2.5 goals market is the way to go for the main wager.
For those searching for Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bull betting tips, Philadelphia’s home record is better and they also have the slightly better head-to-head advantage so we feel they can edge this one by the smallest of margins.
