Orlando City v New York City: MLS betting preview, tips and TV details

TV: Sky Sports Football, 7.30pm Saturday

For the first time since their founding in 2015, New York City will embark on a new MLS campaign without their talisman David Villa and it may take some time for the Bronx Blues to adjust to life without their prolific Spaniard.

World Cup-winning striker Villa was New York City’s first signing and he has repaid the club with 80 goals in 124 starts. However, Villa has left for Japan, signing for Vissel Kobe, and that leaves a huge void to fill – starting at Orlando City.

Attacking midfielder Ismael Tajouri looked a class act in his debut season, chipping in with 11 goals in 27 starts, and the £8m acquisition of Romanian winger Alexandru Mitrita may prove shrewd business.

But City won only four of their 18 away games last term and they have a lot to prove.

Orlando have had enjoyed a healthy pre-season, which included beating the Bronx Blues 2-1 in a friendly last month.

Retaining the services of last season’s leading marksman Dom Dwyer is excellent news and they have strengthened further with the signing of former Manchester United man Nani.

Orlando started last season brightly, winning six of their nine league games before May, and may make home advantage tell.

Recommendation
Orlando City draw no bet
1pt 15-13 RedZone

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport

Like us on Facebook RacingPostSport