Cruz Azul vs. Inter Miami Prediction for Lionel Messi's Debut, 7/21
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Best MLS Betting Tips and MLS Predictions, July 21:
- ⭐ Best MLS Bet #1: Both teams to score (-138) at bet365 Sportsbook
- ⭐ Best MLS Bet #2: Lionel Messi to score last (+125) at bet365 Sportsbook
The much-anticipated 2023 Leagues Cup commences this Friday night, marking Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami since joining the MLS.
In their opening match of the competition, Inter Miami will be facing off against Liga MX side Cruz Azul, with both teams participating in the tournament for the first time.
The exciting encounter will take place at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with the stadium packed to capacity, promising a thrilling atmosphere for the fans in attendance.
Join us as we delve into this exciting encounter, plus, we'll be offering valuable soccer betting tips to guide your wagering decisions. All this information is available on the best online betting sites. Sign up with these best online betting sites now and place your best MLS bets today!
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CRUZ AZUL VS. INTER MIAMI PREDICTION: Both teams to score (-138) at bet365 Sportsbook
After much anticipation, the Argentinian football superstar, Lionel Messi, will finally grace the pitch on Friday night for Inter Miami in a thrilling encounter against Mexican team Cruz Azul in the 2023 Leagues Cup. Joining a team currently sitting at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference with just 18 points from 22 games (5-14-3), Messi faces a challenging task to significantly impact the league table this year. However, clinching victory in the Leagues Cup would be an ideal way to kickstart his journey with the club.
In Group South 3, Inter Miami and Cruz Azul are accompanied by Atlanta United, with the top two teams advancing to the Round of 32. Despite Inter Miami's lackluster performance this season, Messi's presence is expected to have an immense influence on their gameplay, and there are high hopes for the Argentinian star to make an immediate impact. Having enjoyed ample rest with over a month since his last competitive match, Messi is anticipated to come out with full force.
Both Inter Miami and Cruz Azul have experienced struggles this season. The Mexican side is yet to secure a victory in their first three Liga MX matches, scoring only one goal and conceding six. Cruz Azul's recent goal against Tijuana adds intrigue to the match, as they aim to penetrate Inter Miami's defense, which has conceded 36 goals in 22 games (T-26 in the MLS). The clash promises to be an exciting spectacle with Messi's debut adding an extra layer of excitement to the proceedings.
Best MLS Bet #1: Both teams to score (-138) at bet365 Sportsbook
CRUZ AZUL VS. INTER MIAMI PREDICTION: Lionel Messi to score last (+125) at bet365 Sportsbook
Inter Miami has been averaging just one goal per game this season, while conceding an average of 1.63 goals per match. Their leading goal scorer is Josef Martinez, who has netted six times, and the anticipation is high for his potential partnership with Lionel Messi. Miami's preferred formations have been 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 throughout the season, leaving fans curious about where Messi will fit into their lineup.
As for Busquets, he is likely to feature in the midfield, but it's uncertain whether he or Messi will play more than 45 minutes. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these new signings, it would be wise to avoid specific player props. However, our favorite prediction for the Cruz Azul vs. Inter Miami match is Both Teams to Score (-138 at Bet365).
Considering that neither defense appears particularly strong, it is expected that both managers will aim to entertain the sold-out crowd at DRV PNK Stadium. Furthermore, Miami has conceded a goal in six consecutive games, while Cruz Azul has allowed a goal in seven consecutive matches. Hence, Both Teams to Score (-138 at Bet365) on Friday night is our top prediction for the game.
Regarding player props, since it's unclear if Messi will start on Friday night, there isn't much value in backing him to score at any time, currently priced at -138 at Bet365. However, if you still want to explore a Lionel Messi prop, we would recommend placing a bet on the Argentinian star to be the last goal scorer for Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi to score last gives you plus-money odds on the superstar finding the back of the net. Additionally, if he doesn’t come on until halftime, there’s a very good chance he could be the difference between a win and a loss, so we wouldn’t be surprised if he scores late in the game.
Best MLS Bet #2: Lionel Messi to score last (+125) at bet365 Sportsbook
FAQ
What is the bet365 MLS bonus of Bet $1 Get $200?
The bet365 MLS bonus is a promotional offer where you can wager $1 and get a $200 bonus. This bonus is credited to your bet365 account and can be used to place further bets, amplifying your potential to win in MLS betting.
When can Lionel Messi make his Inter Miami debut?
Lionel Messi is expected to make his Major League Soccer debut with Inter Miami at a July 21 home game against Liga MX side Cruz Azul.
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