Nashville SC vs New York City Prediction & Betting Tips - Major League Soccer

Prediction published on 22/02/2023, 18:00  by Sridhar | Modified on 23/02/2023 at 15:59 in Major League Soccer Predictions

It is the start of 2023 MLS regular season as Geodis Park in Tennessee sees Nashville host New York City on Saturday. Both sides had mixed fortunes last season as Nashville crashed out of the first round of the MLS playoffs while New York City were beaten in the Conference Finals. Nashville had 50 points from their regular season in 2022 with 13 wins, ten draws and 11 losses. After a short-term move to the West, Nashville are back in the Eastern Conference. The last time they played in this conference, they ended up third in 2021 with 54 points, which remains their highest total in a regular season. Gary Smith’s team has Landon Donovan as one of the designated players, who could be a strength with his goals. Over the off-season they lost Dave Romney and Ake Loba, before acquiring Fafa Picault and Nick DePuy. Nashville’s preparations haven’t been great though, with the side losing two of their four friendlies although their latest one was a 6-3 win over Cincinnati.

Two-time Eastern Conference finalists New York City start afresh after a number of departures over the summer. Maxi Moralez, Sean Johnson and Alex Callens have all left the club for challenges abroad. Goal ‘keeper Matt Freese, defender Braian Cufre, and right-back Mitja Ilenic have been signed. They are looking for an eighth successive playoff appearance but it will be interesting to see how coach Nick Cushing can get the best out of this side. With all key departures up top, Telles Magno will lead the line after scoring eight goals in the 2022 regular season. New York City played six friendlies over the off-season winning one, drawing three and losing two.