(Featured image: Alamy Images)
Los Angeles FC look to kickstart their MLS 2024 season as they take on an unbeaten Nashville SC side on Sunday.
Kick-off is set for 2:30am UK time at BMO Stadium.
Despite a rocky start which has seen just one win in their opening four matches, LA have taken four out of a possible six points at home this season. They've only scored two goals so far this campaign though - both of which came in a 2-1 home victory over Seattle Sounders on the opening weekend.
Since then, they've conceded five goals without reply in three games, leaving them in tenth in the MLS Western Conference. They have created more chances on home soil though, averaging an expected goal (xG) tally of 1.68 compared to 1.33 on the road. They have however looked more vulnerable at home, averaging an expected goals against (xGA) of 1.63 compared to 1.35 in away games.
Nashville meanwhile are yet to lose in their opening four fixtures, but have not yet secured three points on the road. Their only away game saw them draw 1-1 with Colorado Rapids at the start of March. They also suffered a 3-1 away defeat to Inter Miami in the Champions Cup last week.
The away side find themselves eighth in the MLS Eastern Conference, primarily due to their difficulty creating opportunities at the top end of the pitch. They've averaged an xG of just 0.92 across their four fixtures, though they have exceeded this figure with 1.25 goals per game. Nashville have also shown vulnerability defensively, averaging an xGA of 1.52, though this dropped to 1.06 in their sole away fixture in Colorado.
Despite LA's mixed fortunes so far this season, backing the home side on the moneyline makes the most sense. They've impressed in front of their home fans and will be eager to regain their scoring form this weekend at BMO Stadium. We don't expect this to be a routine victory for the home side though, with Nashville making it an intriguing watch with both sides enjoying success throughout the 90 minutes.