Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the highlight fixtures of the next MLS matchday will take place this Sunday at Allianz Field, where the local side Minnesota hosts San Diego. I’m backing a bet on goals in this clash, with strong odds for success.
Match preview
Minnesota is showing excellent form at this stage of the season. Adrian Heath’s squad is unbeaten in their last four matches, with two wins and two draws — boasting a +4 goal difference over that span. The team is especially confident at home: four wins, three draws, and just one loss at their own stadium.
Their most recent victory over Seattle (3-2) showcased both fighting spirit and attacking creativity. Currently, Minnesota sits third in the Western Conference, tied on points with their upcoming opponent but trailing on goal difference. Given their current form and the backing of the home crowd, the hosts have a great chance to solidify their spot in the top three.
San Diego is off to a strong start this season and rightfully occupies a place in the top three. Nine wins, 29 goals scored, and impressive home dominance make them a real force. However, their away record raises concerns: four losses on the road against just three wins suggests they struggle outside their own stadium.
In their last outing, the team kept a clean sheet and beat Austin 2-0, proving they can dominate with the right tactical setup. Under Michael Vargas, the club plays aggressive, vertical football, but the stats show this approach doesn’t always work away from home. Against Minnesota, they’ll be tested by organized defending and relentless pressing.
Probable lineups
- Minnesota: St. Clair, Gressel, Harvey, Boxall, Romero, Markanich, Pereira, Jeong, Trapp, Lod, Oluwaseyi
- San Diego: Dos Santos, Verhoeven, McNair, McVey, Bombino, Alvarado, Twerskov, De la Torre, A. Dreyer, Valakari, Maitan
Match facts and head-to-head
- Both teams have 30 points, but San Diego sits higher due to a superior goal difference.
- This is the first-ever meeting between the clubs — a historic debut for the rivalry.
- Minnesota is unbeaten in five straight matches, while San Diego has struggled on the road.
Prediction
Based on current form, Minnesota looks preferable thanks to their stability and home advantage. Despite San Diego’s competitive edge, their away issues could prove decisive. Also, with both sides eager to attack, backing "both teams to score" at 1.74 odds looks like a smart move.
