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Friday MLS Forecast: Week 21

By Kyle McCarthy, Goal.com

Tom Soehn’s men better starting eating their Wheaties. D.C. United will need all the help it can get over the next month.

From Aug. 9 (a glamour friendly against Real Madrid at FedEx Field in Landover, Md.) to Sept. 12 (a home match against Seattle), United will play ten games. Not 10 games against New York (or even one), but 10 serious games against nine serious opponents (unless Real Madrid decides to go hogwild at FedEx Field on Sunday).

Included in that stretch are trips to two foreign countries – Canada (Toronto FC on Aug. 15) and Honduras (C.D. Marathon to open CONCACAF Champions League play on Aug. 1 cool – and two states – Illinois (Chicago on Aug. 29) and Texas (FC Dallas on Sept. 5). While the road games are perilous, the home schedule doesn’t provide much in the way of relief. There are two home games within ten days against Seattle (Sept. 2 for the Open Cup final and Sept. 12 in MLS play) and stopovers by Kansas City (Sept. 9), Los Angeles (Aug. 22) and Toluca (Aug. 26) in addition to Madrid’s visit.

The Forecast got tired just looking at all of those games, so it can only imagine what Soehn’s men will feel like once Seattle leaves town in mid-September. United will have to hope it can keep its head above water in MLS and Champions League play while also finding a way to retain the Open Cup. Not even the Forecast can figure out a way for United to get through that group of fixtures unscathed, so the ball’s in your court, Mr. Soehn, to figure out the best way to navigate through that minefield.

After the tricky battlefield better known as Week 20 forced the Forecast off course after two stellar weeks, it hopes to return to its best with the smaller Week 21 slate.

Last week: 2/6 (33%)

For the season: 58/123 (47%)

Saturday

Los Angeles at New England – 6 p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel)

Don’t expect a surplus of goals in this one. Los Angeles doesn’t give up much on the road (11 GA in 10 road games) and the Revs have conceded just once in MLS play since these two teams last met in L.A.’s 1-0 Independence Day win at the HDC. The tightness of this one will place significant emphasis on not conceding free kicks and not getting caught in possession in bad spots. New England would be best served if Shalrie Joseph (knee) could play in midfield and Edgaras Jankauskas (adductor) could play at striker, but the combo probably isn’t healthy enough to do so for 90 minutes at this point. For the Revs’ attack to thrive, one member of the duo has to play up top at all times to provide some hold up play. Los Angeles has never won against New England at Gillette Stadium (0-5-2), but the Galaxy may grind out a point from the Steve Nicol-less (suspended after last week’s ejection) Revolution much like Toronto FC did last weekend.

Prediction: Draw.

Columbus at San Jose – 8:30 p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel)

If you had asked me prior to San Jose’s 4-0 win over Seattle at Buck Shaw last Sunday, I’d have put this down as a Crew banker. Columbus had just gritted out yet another result – 1-0 in Colorado, a notoriously difficult place to play – to extend its unbeaten run to six matches (4-0-2) and San Jose looked dead in the water. Then the Earthquakes came out and unveiled a central midfield pairing – Ramon Sanchez and Andre Luiz – that links the play and holds the ball far more proficiently than any duo Frank Yallop had put on the field this season. Now, I’m not quite so sure. Add in a dash of the Candlestick crowd (in the first ever MLS game there) and now it becomes even more difficult for Robert Warzycha’s men. Not difficult enough to completely abandon them, however.

Prediction: Draw.

Seattle at Real Salt Lake – 9 p.m.

Seattle’s 4-0 loss to Barcelona provided yet another nice distraction from league play, but Sounders FC will certainly peek at the ugly game tape from last Sunday’s 4-0 loss to San Jose before taking the field at Rio Tinto. Not withstanding a shaky first game in rave green against Barcelona, new left back Leo Gonzalez should be handed the opportunity to make his MLS debut against RSL. First-choice right back James Riley (suspension) won’t be available, but Freddie Ljungberg (migraine) should return after missing last weekend. It’s a swap Sounders FC is willing to take; Ljungberg drives them in the middle of the park, while Sigi Schmid has plenty of options to replace Riley. There are no options left for RSL right now; Jason Kreis’ club needs to start winning games. They’ll need Yura Movsisyan (shoulder) around to carry the goal-scoring load, but he is a doubt heading into this one. Kreis (suspension) will watch for the second consecutive game, but this one needs to have a happier ending than last weekend’s 1-0 loss at Toyota Park. Somehow, his charges will find a way to provide it.

Prediction: Real Salt Lake win.

Chivas USA at Colorado – 9:30 p.m.

These aren’t exactly the form teams taking the field in Commerce City. Chivas USA may have had two weeks off, but that won’t be enough to wash off the stench of four consecutive losses in league play. Colorado hasn’t exactly taken advantage of this recent stretch of home games (the Rapids are in the midst of a stretch with nine of 12 at home; Colorado is 3-2-1 at home during that period with a pair of road losses thrown in there) and needs a victory to keep pace in the playoff race. Colorado also desperately needs Conor Casey (groin/thigh) to shake off his injury to lead the line; his presence opens up avenues for everyone else. The Rapids will also have to make an adjustment at the back with Ugo Ihemelu suspended. As for the Goats, they’ll have to cope without Paulo Nagamura (suspended), Carey Talley (suspended) and Zach Thornton (quad). Considering Chivas hasn’t played well or scored at all (231 minutes without a goal) lately, it’s tough to see them getting something this game without those three key players.

Prediction: Colorado win.

Sunday

Chicago at Houston – 8:30 p.m.

Houston looked tired and uninspired in last night’s 1-0 loss in Frisco. It isn’t a surprise to see the extra games wearing on the Dynamo’s key players, but it does send out a warning shot with the CONCACAF Champions League fixture pileup still to come. Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear had an eye on this one when he withdrew Brian Ching at the half and Brad Davis with 25 minutes to spare against the Hoops, but the plan backfired in part when Davis somehow got ejected while sitting on the bench. That means Houston’s two starting wingers – Davis (suspension) and Brian Mullan (ankle) – likely won’t play. Chicago isn’t at full strength heading into this match either after playing 120 minutes in midweek in the SuperLiga final loss to Tigres. Can Cuauhtemoc Blanco recover in time to play a meaningful role against Houston? Will Wilman Conde (hamstring) and John Thorrington (groin) overcome the odds and return to play a part? Even with a league-best 5-1-4 mark on the road, the Fire may struggle to cope in the withering Texas heat under these circumstances.

Prediction: Houston win.

MLS Playoffs: Friday MLS Forecast: Conference Semifinals, First Leg

By Kyle McCarthy, Goal.com

Seattle and Houston opened the MLS postseason in style with an entertaining 0-0 draw in front of 35,807 at Qwest Field last night.

While there weren't any goals in Sounders FC's playoff debut, the match offered just about anything else a spectator could want with intermittent spells of attractive, open play mixed with gritty, diligent playoff football. Houston rode its luck at times – Brian Mullan cleared stand-in centerback Patrick Ianni's header off the line before Ianni subsequently hit the bar with another headed offering – but ultimately emerged with a deserved draw based on its commitment and Seattle's lack of cutting edge in the final third during the run of play.

Given Seattle's strength on the road at the tail end of the campaign, Sounders FC still harbors realistic dreams of a Western Conference final berth. Houston will have to push forward more consistently than it did at Qwest Field, opening up spaces for Freddie Ljungberg and Steve Zakuani to exploit. Houston didn't do a particularly good job of handling either winger on Thursday night, often resorting to mistimed challenges to halt the play rather than finding a more nuanced way to negate the wide threat. Seattle should feel reasonably confident in its ability to obtain the required result at Robertson Stadium, particularly if the Dynamo continues last night's trend of shoddy set-piece marking and a different referee exerts tighter control over the physical tone of the contest.

That isn't to say the tie has swung in Sounders FC's favor ahead of the second leg. Fredy Montero's ineffective night – marred by yet another ineffective attempt to get a player sent off through exaggeration – showed how limited Seattle is in the final third when the Colombian doesn't exert his influence or provide the finishing touch. Houston's Bobby Boswell and Geoff Cameron did particularly well to contain and track Montero on the evening and the Dynamo can expect a similar performance from the steady pair in the second leg. Houston will also surely get more attacking help out of Mullan on the right, Stuart Holden through the middle and Brian Ching up top in its home leg. If Houston can expunge the demons of another speed-filled side entering its home turf and ending its season at this stage last season, the Dynamo could scrape through as well.

While the result of the tie is finely balanced ahead of the second leg, one thing is far more certain than the eventual outcome: next Sunday's second leg is appointment viewing based on the evidence presented by last night's affair.

The Forecast wrapped up the regular season with another mediocre week of prognostication, but it holds high hopes for the playoffs after wiping the slate clean ahead of the second season.

Last week: 3/7 (43%)
Final tally for the season: 88/195 (45%)

Saturday

Columbus @ Real Salt Lake – 6:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

This trip to Rio Tinto Stadium could pose significant problems for the Crew. Robert Warzycha's side hasn't played well over the last month or so (one goal and one win in four October matches) and faces a RSL side that doesn't lose often at home (9-1-5 on the campaign). Warzycha faces a selection poser in the form of stalwart defender Chad Marshall. Marshall hasn't played since Sept. 13 after picking up a left MCL sprain in a 2-1 win over Houston, but he is expected to be fit enough to start in Sandy. How will Marshall, presumably short of match fitness, cope with turning around and chasing Robbie Findley and Yura Movsisyan as RSL plays them consistently over the top for 90 minutes? Findley and Movsisyan should get plenty of service with Andy Williams in fine form behind them, so expect RSL to find a way to notch a couple of goals and continue its tendency to score in bunches at home. The final tally won't match RSL's 4-1 home win on April 2 because the Crew simply can't allow it to happen and expect to go through, but RSL's home form may just place them in position to spring a shocking first-round upset if they can bank a two-goal cushion heading back to Crew Stadium.

Prediction: Real Salt Lake win.

Sunday

Chicago @ New England – 2:00p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel) – Goal.com Preview

Hide the meek and the vulnerable. This isn't going to be a series for the faint of heart as these two sides meet for the fifth consecutive postseason. New England didn't score or allow a goal from the run of play in the month of October, so expect the Revs to continue to keep it tight at the back and hope for a set piece or a slice of luck to convert in the attacking third. Chicago will have to ride through the distraction of the Cuauhtemoc Blanco-to-Veracruz signing leaking out on Thursday – isn't there a better time for this, Blanco? – and the continuing spate of injuries at the back. Wilman Conde and Gonzalo Segares should return to the lineup and valuable midfielder John Thorrington could join them, but Tim Ward (foot) may still miss out. The two sides played to a drab 0-0 draw two weeks ago, but that's firmly in the rear view mirror. In order to have a viable chance to advance, New England will need a win in this leg. History favors the Revs here – the home team is 12-0-1 in this playoff series all-time – so let's shade it to the home side and the possibility of an open tie heading into next Saturday's second leg.

Prediction: New England win.

Los Angeles @ Chivas USA – 5:00p.m. (ESPN2)

MLS enters into uncharted territory as the Home Depot Center groundsharers take the SuperClasico to the postseason for the first time. Will the unique circumstances – no true road matches – render the traditional philosophy of drawing on the road and winning at home meaningless? Then again, the venue doesn't necessarily impact how either of these teams like to play. Both sides set out to frustrate the opponent; the Galaxy prefers to do so with its cohesive shape while Chivas USA exerts relentless pressure. The lingering question in the series is which of the creative players – Los Angeles' Landon Donovan and Chivas USA's Sacha Kljestan – can find enough space to conjure up a bit of magic. The edge certainly goes to Donovan and the Galaxy there. One interesting subplot: can the Red-and-White do a better job of springing Justin Braun or Maykel Galindo in behind the Galaxy defense than it did during the regular season? With the way both teams tend to approach the game, this first leg will probably play out as a dull non-starter to set up the decisive second leg.

Prediction: Draw.

Week 1
The Forecast returns for 2010 with a brief look at Thursday night's season-opening clash in Seattle and an extended review of the weekend slate.

Mar 26, 2010
By Kyle McCarthy

Before we delve into the first Forecast of the season, here are a few quick notes on Seattle's season-opening 2-0 win over Philadelphia on Thursday night.

Suspect tactical selections hindered Philadelphia's chances of a shock result: Peter Nowak protected his starting XI as if it were some precious and rare artifact prior to his side's inaugural game. Considering the rather shocking selection of Danny Mwanga in central midfield and the somewhat less surprising choice of Toni Stahl in central defense, it made sense for Nowak to keep his cards close. It doesn't mean those choices were correct, however. A youthful looking lineup with veterans Stefani Miglioranzi and Shavar Thomas parked on the bench presented serious questions considering how much the big occasion and the dismal conditions cried out for a couple of extra wise heads to guide the young bucks through. In particular, Nowak's decision to leave seasoned holding midfielder Miglioranzi out and feed Mwanga to Seattle's accomplished central midfield pairing of Osvaldo Alonso and Brad Evans reeked of a gamble far too risky to take in the context of this game. By the time Miglioranzi replaced Mwanga at the start of the second half, it was too late to save the Union.

Opposing teams still travel to Qwest Field wanting to kick the stuffing out of Sounders FC: Danny Califf picked up a yellow card for whacking Fredy Montero inside the first minute of the game, setting the physical tone from the outset. The rough stuff saw Stahl sent off for two bookable offenses in the first 40 minutes, though his first yellow card looked a bit soft. Philadelphia's five bookings, however, didn't knock Seattle off its stride once it recovered from a poor opening spell to grab hold of the game with Evans' early goal on a trademark late run.

Fredy Montero deserves appreciation...even with the theatrics: The Colombian forward draws the ire of pundits and spectators alike because he goes to ground far too easily on most occasions, but his tendency to stop, drop and roll shouldn't distract from his status as perhaps the most opportunistic striker in MLS. Montero's quick reactions from corner kicks nearly yielded results on a couple of occasions before he adroitly stooped to head home Alonso's bouncing long-range effort. The strike offers yet another reason why Montero is destined for a higher level sooner rather than later.

A great night for a pair of young wingers: Seattle left winger Steve Zakuani ran riot on beleaguered right back David Myrie for most of the night. At one point during the second half, he even used his searing pace to force the former Chicago man to bodyblock him to the ground. When he wasn't tormenting the Costa Rican, Zakuani switched to the other flank and created havoc there, too. Leaving the match with only an assist on Evans' opener hardly seemed proportionate to his contribution. While most of Philadelphia's youthful lineup struggled to make an impact given the adverse circumstances, Roger Torres caught the eye with his considerable technical skill on the right flank. If given the proper support and some help from Fred's expected return from a one-match ban next week, the diminutive Colombian midfielder could play an integral role in kickstarting the Union's attack.

With the First Kick preliminaries out of the way, it's time to turn the Forecast's focus to a full slate of seven league matches this weekend.

Last week: n/a
Final tally for the 2009 season: 88/195 (45%)

Friday

Colorado @ Chivas USA – 10:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

In a rather notable move prior to this contest, the Rapids dished reliable midfielder Nick LaBrocca and a third-round draft pick to Toronto FC on Thursday in exchange for Marvell Wynne. Wynne is slated to join Colorado prior to the match, though it would be somewhat of a surprise to see Rapids coach Gary Smith drop Kosuke Kimura on short notice to start Wynne without a training session or two behind him. As for the match itself, the opener will likely see Colorado keep it tight – relying on central midfielders Jeff Larentowicz (if fit enough after recovering from a right knee scope) and Pablo Mastroeni to do most of the dirty work – to stem the flow of Chivas USA's creative juices through the center of the park. It may just work if Omar Cummings can wriggle free once or twice behind Chivas USA's back four.

Prediction: Draw.

Saturday

Toronto FC @ Columbus – 4:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

TFC pulled a fast one by sending an overpriced and unwanted fullback to a fullback-needy team for a useful player in midfield. Preki would do well to throw LaBrocca straight into the mix with Julian de Guzman and Sam Cronin and ask the three of them to close down the Columbus midfielders as quickly as possible. Guillermo Barros Schelotto usually drives the Crew attack, but Columbus may find most of its joy in the wide areas as wingers Eddie Gaven and Robbie Rogers will likely have plenty of space to isolate and run at Jim Brennan and Nana Attakora with the Reds' usually narrow midfield play. Columbus regularly defeats far stronger teams than this undermanned TFC outfit at Crew Stadium, so chalk the first leg of the Trillium Cup up as a home banker.

Prediction: Columbus win.

Houston @ FC Dallas – 4:00p.m. (Telefutura) – Goal.com Preview

The two-legged battle for El Capitan begins in Frisco with the two sides swapping their traditional roles ahead of this campaign. Houston normally stays the course, while FCD often switches its roster around considerably during the offseason. The departures of Ricardo Clark and Stuart Holden forced forcin Dominic Kinnear to shuffle his pack in the center of the park. All eyes will focus on Geoff Cameron as he moves into midfield and battling with the wily Daniel Hernandez should provide a nice opening day test for the Best XI defender. Houston generally struggles at the start of the season and the pattern will likely continue here if FCD can consistently isolate Jeff Cunningham's speed over the top against Eddie Robinson. One stat to ponder: all three of Houston's losses in this series have come at Pizza Hut Park by a 1-0 scoreline.

Prediction: FC Dallas win.

Chicago @ New York – 7:00p.m. (ESPN) – Goal.com Preview

Tricky game for the Red Bulls here after they raised expectations by thumping Santos 3-1 in a friendly at Red Bull Arena last Saturday. How can New York conjure up a proper encore? Chicago certainly won't make it easy on the home side with its organization and its ability to surge forward on the counter. Roy Miller and Jeremy Hall must have good nights in order to limit Julio Martinez and Marco Pappa from providing the type of service they can deliver with some regularity. Then again, if the Red Bulls can possess the ball and dictate the tempo, they can negate the counter and test new Fire goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra early and often. Much will hinge on Juan Pablo Angel's fitness as he battles a right knee sprain, but the Colombian striker trained fully on Thursday and hopes to play from the start. With Angel in the lineup and a raucous crowd in the stands at the first MLS match at RBA, give the edge to home side.

Prediction: New York win.

D.C. United @ Kansas City – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Shrewd signing by D.C. on Thursday, picking up Carey Talley on short money after Chivas USA waived him earlier in the week. Curt Onalfo could just throw the veteran straight into the side at CommunityAmerica Ballpark with Juan Manuel Pena in Spain to pick up his visa and Devon McTavish unlikely to play with a right hamstring strain, according to the Washington Post. Kansas City won't have newly signed Sunil Chhetri available as he awaits his work visa and ITC, but Peter Vermes can lean on a whole host of other fresh signings to fill the void. A new captain, Davy Arnaud, will lead them out, to boot. Changes are everywhere for the home side, but one wonders whether Onalfo and his charges have something sneaky up their sleeves to atone for his departure from K.C. last August and D.C.'s playoff demise at CAB to end last season.

Prediction: D.C. United win.

Real Salt Lake @ San Jose – 9:00p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel) – Goal.com Preview

The reigning MLS Cup holders probably would have liked an opportunity to open up at home and collect a likely three points, but instead they face a trip to Northern California to confront their road demons (2-11-2 in 2009). The Earthquakes could field first-round draft pick Ike Opara in central defense, though Bobby Burling provides another option. On the balance of things, Opara might represent the better fit this match because he's more likely to keep pace with the speedy Robbie Findley. As for RSL, Jason Kreis must wrestle with one selection poser up front (Alvaro Saborio v. Fabian Espindola, with the Argentine holdover the slight favorite) and rely on his tightknit group of players to produce on the road. If RSL can't secure points in a matches like this one, it could be another long, hard slog outside Utah this season. The champs, however, deserve the benefit of the doubt here.

Prediction: Draw.

New England @ Los Angeles – 10:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Landon Donovan returns to the Galaxy fold as the Revolution come to town. Donovan spent most of the winter playing for Everton, so it'll be interesting to see how he adjusts upon his return to this level and the attentive treatement he will undoubtedly receive. His job probably became a bit easier with the news that Shalrie Joseph (right hip flexor strain) won't be available for the contest, freeing up considerable space for the American international to roam in and through central midfield. The banged-up Revs have fared pretty well at the Home Depot Center in recent years – four results in the past five attempts (3-1-1) – but this group will have to keep it tight and counterattack judiciously in order to obtain the desired result. Don't expect Donovan to let it happen.

Prediction: Los Angeles win.

Week 3
The Forecast previews a record-setting Saturday and offers its picks for the extensive Week 3 slate.
Apr 9, 2010
By Kyle McCarthy

Clear off your calendars, MLS fans. Tomorrow will make history.

All 16 teams will take to the field within a seven-hour period, marking the first time MLS clubs will contest eight games in a single day. Talk about a busy day for keen observers.

The Forecast welcomes the heavy fixture list after swinging and missing on last weekend's three-match weekend slate and hopes the schedule congestion will lead to a prediction payoff after the eight games conclude.

Last week: 0/3 (0%)
For the season: 3/10 (30%)

Saturday

New York @ Chivas USA – 4:00p.m. (Telefutura) – Goal.com Preview

After trekking to Seattle last weekend and departing with all three points, New York makes its second cross-country trip in as many weeks to face the Red-and-White. This match looms as a potential letdown for the Red Bulls on the heels of the MLS opener of Red Bull Arena and the end of a 27-match winless streak on the road with last Saturday's 1-0 win in Seattle. In order to avoid the drop off and the jet lag, New York will have to keep true to its defensive shape – the central defensive partnership of Mike Petke and Tim Ream has excelled during the first two matches – and seek to exploit Chivas USA from counters and set pieces. As for the home side, the Red-and-White hasn't really looked the part in either of its first two matches, particularly in the attacking third. In spite of his shocking miss last Thursday, Maicon Santos might warrant a recall up front because he facilitates the attack fairly well and gives Maykel Galindo a partner who can serve as a target player. One other point worth noting: Costa Rican defender Dario Delgado could make Martin Vasquez's squad for the match after receiving his P-1 work visa on Thursday, according to ESPN Los Angeles.

Prediction: Draw.

D.C. United @ Philadelphia – 6:00p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel) – Goal.com Preview

Philly plays its first-ever home match at the Linc against a local rival bringing a significant fan contingent to help celebrate the occasion. The storylines don't end there with Vice President Biden in the house, Peter Nowak and Fred facing their old club and yet another trade imbroglio brewing between the two teams over the rights to Luciano Emilio. Based on the early season form from both sides, the off-the-field component may prove decidedly more interesting than the on-field fare. United keeps the ball well enough, but offers little urgency in possession and produces no end product. It isn't much better for the Union as Philly looked every bit the expansion team in its Seattle debut. Maybe the excitement will propel both teams forward or maybe Fred's return after a one-match ban will spark the Union's attack, but a relatively tame draw represents the safe call here.

Prediction: Draw.

Toronto FC @ New England – 7:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Revolution boss Steve Nicol enters this game in search of his 100th MLS victory and he hardly could have asked for a better opportunity to claim it as the out-of-sorts Reds visit after yet another week of upheaval. TFC captain Jim Brennan abruptly retired midweek, freeing up cap space for Trader Mo to wheel and deal and leaving Preki without a reliable left back for this trip to Gillette Stadium. Gabe Gala probably makes the most sense as Brennan's temporary replacement, but he doesn't exactly offer an established option. As for New England, Nicol could welcome Darrius Barnes (right hip flexor strain) and Shalrie Joseph (right hip flexor strain) back into a side that hasn't conceded in 174 minutes. The first team to score may do just enough to take this one and the Revs look likeliest to snatch the decisive goal unless new TFC captain Dwayne De Rosario can wriggle free from the home side's suffocating rearguard.

Prediction: New England win.

Colorado @ Kansas City – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Peter Vermes' side stormed out of the gates with a 4-0 victory over D.C. United and promptly sat on the sidelines for a weekend. It remains to be seen whether the early momentum will transfer to this stretch of two matches in four days against Gary Smith's charges. Playing the Rapids at CommunityAmerica Ballpark isn't the easiest of tasks because Colorado charges Jeff Larentowicz and Pablo Mastroeni with destroying in the center of the park and restricts its attacking endeavor on the road. With the Rapids' central midfield duo likely to assert control over the proceedings, the Wizards will have to use the meager wide areas to provide Kei Kamara and Ryan Smith with plenty of opportunities to run at the Colorado fullbacks and create some space in the center of the park. A draw looks like the play here to extend Wizards' nine-match home unbeaten run (6-0-3 since Sept. 14, 2002) against the Rapids.

Prediction: Draw.

Los Angeles @ Houston – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Brad Davis' double from the penalty spot bailed the Dynamo out last Thursday against Real Salt Lake, but Houston can't expect the sort of charity Jamison Olave doled out in this Western Conference final rematch. After notching zero shots on goal in the win over RSL, Houston will need Geoff Cameron to build on an active second half to propel the attack without Brian Ching (left hamstring strain) in the starting XI. Dominic Kinnear will hope Cam Weaver (right knee strain) is fit enough to feature as Ching's replacement, particularly because the out-of-shape Luis Landin looms as the other option. Los Angeles will rely on Edson Buddle (three goals) and Landon Donovan (three assists) to spark a Galaxy attack that has mustered just five shots on goal in its two games. Fortunately for Bruce Arena, the Galaxy defense - zero goals allowed through two games - remains stingy even in Gregg Berhalter's absence. Houston earns the advantage in this tight encounter because of its ability to sneak out results at Robertson Stadium and its cleverness to hand out flashlights in reference to last year's electricity-challenged playoff tilt at the Home Depot Center.

Prediction: Houston win.

Columbus @ FC Dallas – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Interesting contrast of styles in this match with the run-and-gun home side against the cagey, wing-oriented Supporters' Shield holders. Columbus didn't quite hit top gear as it dispatched Toronto FC in its opener and the Crew will have to perform at a higher level to obtain points in Frisco. The visitors will be forced into at least one change. With Eric Brunner (concussion) sidelined, Columbus coach Robert Warzycha could slot Chad Marshall (left hamstring strain) straight into central defense after he missed the opener. FCD coach Schellas Hyndman has defensive concerns as well with Kyle Davies (fractured arm) out for the next 8-10 weeks and Ugo Ihemelu (hamstring) not back in full training. Hyndman has talked up Brek Shea as a possible substitute to plug the gap in central defense. Despite the defensive issues for both sides, this match could turn on the supply each orchestrator – Columbus' Guillermo Barros Schelotto and FCD's David Ferreira – can locate in what should be a fairly open contest.

Prediction: Draw.

San Jose @ Chicago – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

It didn't take long for Jon Busch to find his way back to Chicago, but the former Fire number one will make his return to Toyota Park as the Earthquakes' number two. San Jose coach Frank Yallop will have to replace the suspended Chris Leitch after his dismissal in the season-opening lashing by Real Salt Lake and MLSsoccer.com reported that rookie right back Steve Beitashour could get the nod. Fortunately for the San Jose rookie, Marco Pappa hasn't found his form on the left side yet and spent a portion of last Saturday's 2-2 draw at Colorado trying to plug the John Thorrington-sized hole in central midfield. Even though Thorrington (left quadriceps strain) will miss his third consecutive match and midfield partner Logan Pause (left knee sprain) could join him on the sidelines, the Fire should shake off their 2009 home doldrums and send the Quakes home without points.

Prediction: Chicago win.

Seattle @ Real Salt Lake – 9:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

On the back of two solid road performances, RSL returns to Rio Tinto Stadium to face a Sounders FC side still smarting from last weekend's 1-0 home defeat to New York. Both teams face selection posers heading into the match. Seattle coach Sigi Schmid could introduce Pat Noonan to the starting lineup – perhaps on the right side of midfield in place of Roger Levesque – as the visitors attempt to add some nous in the final third (17 attempts at goal against New York without any end product), while Jason Kreis must decide whether to re-introduce Robbie Findley (a second-half substitute in the 2-1 loss in Houston last Thursday) in place of the in-form Fabian Espindola or Alvaro Saborio. Shade this one to the home side because of its current form, the morale boost provided by Kyle Beckerman's four-year contract extension on Thursday and the scintillating contributions of Javier Morales over the opening fortnight.

Prediction: Real Salt Lake win.

Week 5
The Forecast ponders the controversial penalty kick decision at the end of last night's 2-2 draw between Seattle and FC Dallas before sharing its weekly picks.
Apr 23, 2010
By Kyle McCarthy

The Forecast prefaces its look at the engaging Week 5 slate with five brief notes on last night's controversial 2-2 draw between Seattle and FC Dallas:

A rookie's veteran move earned FC Dallas a point: In the third minute of second-half stoppage time, FC Dallas forward Jason Yeisley collected a blocked Tyrone Marshall clearance attempt at the edge of the penalty area, surged between Jhon Kennedy Hurtado and Leo Gonzalez and stumbled to the ground. It wasn't a dive, but it definitely wasn't a penalty either. The semantics didn't matter after referee Terry Vaughn pointed to the penalty spot and Jeff Cunningham confidently slotted home his second penalty of the night to earn FCD a point.

Positioning to blame on the late penalty kick call: From where Vaughn stood, the incident probably looked like a penalty kick. The problem: his view of the play provided the wrong information. Vaughn watched the incident through a crowd of players from a 45 degree angle about 20-25 yards away. It's tough for Vaughn to get too much closer to the play because of its location a few yards to the left of the penalty spot, but a more acute angle deeper along his diagonal probably would have provided a closer vantage point with a better look at the proceedings. One point to ponder: did junior assistant referee Jason Cullum communicate with Vaughn and chime in with his thoughts? He likely had the best view of the play.

Fredy Montero issued a stunning reminder of his quality to his European suitors: While Montero offered another indifferent performance from the run of play, the Colombian striker curled home a sumptuous free kick from 41 yards to give Sounders FC a 2-1 lead.

Goalkeeping concerns surface for both clubs: FCD may ponder a switch to Kevin Hartman after Dario Sala conceded two soft goals – despite the significant quality of Montero's strike, Sala needs to do better than a desperate dive from that distance – on the night. In a troubling development for the visitors, Seattle veteran Kasey Keller yielded to debutant keeper Terry Boss at halftime after a collision with Cunningham to concede the first of FCD's two penalty kicks prompted a spell of blurry vision.

Kudos to ESPN for addressing the empty seats in Frisco: Many television crews tasked with narrating a game in a sparsely filled stadium would have avoided the stark juxtaposition of a match between the attendance leaders and the attendance cellar dwellers. Instead of shunting the theme to the side, ESPN focused on the concern intermittently during the match with graphics and references. The treatment may not have made the suits in New York City particularly happy, but it did adequately explore a significant storyline and explain why few fans were in the stands.

Last week: 5/7 (71%)
For the season: 10/25 (40%)

Saturday

Philadelphia @ New York – 4:00p.m. (Telefutura) – Goal.com Preview

The Red Bulls couldn't ask for a better opportunity to snap out of their attacking funk and collect a few goals from the run of play. Danish winger Brian Nielsen could make his debut even though he is scheduled to train for the first time today. If Nielsen does shake off the jet lag to start, he could fill the gaping chasm on the left side of the field or allow Joel Lindpere to slide out to the wing to address the need. No matter how Hans Backe plans to align his midfielders, the Red Bulls will benefit because they haven't received effective play down the left flank to complement Dane Richards' pace down the right side. Carl Robinson's probable return from knee swelling should help the Red Bulls move the ball through midfield effectively as well. Throw in Danny Califf's one-match ban and its corresponding impact on the Philly rearguard and the Red Bulls look poised to withstand the barnstorming Union (the second of four straight road matches) and seal all three points.

Prediction: New York win.

Real Salt Lake @ Columbus – 7:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

It isn't much of a leap to suggest the Crew will enter this match with an extra dollop of motivation. RSL ended the Crew's 2009 season in the Eastern Conference semifinals by marching into Crew Stadium and emerging with a 3-2 second leg win. In order to extract its revenge, the Crew will have to shake off its rust after a second bye in four weeks and work through selection concerns at the back. With Eric Brunner (questionable – concussion) and Chad Marshall (departed practice early on Thursday to receive a massage on his hamstring, according to the Columbus Dispatch) uncertain to feature and Danny O'Rourke suspended, Crew coach Robert Warzycha faces a central defensive crisis if one of those three players isn't fit enough to start. RSL's injury concerns – Javier Morales (right adductor strain) could return after missing the trip to Los Angeles, while recent reserve Robbie Findley (groin) may join Ned Grabavoy (right MCL sprain) and Chris Wingert (left hamstring strain) on the sidelines – could also play a role. While RSL submitted a fine performance in a 2-1 loss at Los Angeles last week, Columbus should benefit from its bye and manage to find some solace with a victory here.

Prediction: Columbus win.

Colorado @ New England – 7:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

The offseason trade between the two teams adds a little spice to a fixture that probably wouldn't sizzle otherwise. The centerpiece of the deal, Jeff Larentowicz, may hold to the key to this match in the Rapids' engine room. New England probably won't have Shalrie Joseph (right hip flexor strain) for the fourth time in five matches, so Larentowicz and Pablo Mastroeni should dictate the flow of play through midfield and continue the Revolution's problems in possession. If Colorado can work its magic on the counter through Conor Casey and Omar Cummings, the two New England players involved in the January swap, Preston Burpo and Cory Gibbs, will play integral roles in trying to limit the Rapids' effectiveness in the attacking third. The tactical tendencies of both teams and the recent history – the past three matches have ended in 1-1 draws – suggest a share of the points.

Prediction: Draw.

Houston @ Chicago – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Both sides picked up morale-boosting wins last weekend. Houston continued its dominance over Chivas USA with a 3-0 win at Robertson Stadium and showed off its new central midfield tandem in its romp. Geoff Cameron and Lovel Palmer did as they pleased in the center of the park against the Red-and-White, but they will encounter a significantly more congested midfield at Toyota Park. Chicago hasn't quite figured out what it wants to do yet aside from making it difficult for the other team to play, but Carlos de los Cobos opted for a 4-5-1 at D.C. United last Saturday and may continue with it after returning from the District with a 2-1 victory thanks to Brian McBride's late show. McBride should press for a start here, but the Fire will have to use him more frequently to make any tactical or personnel switch work. If Houston can track Chicago's runners from midfield and the Cameron-Palmer duo can make the Fire rue John Thorrington's continued absence (left quadriceps strain) once again, the Dynamo could make it four wins in five undefeated trips to Bridgeview even with its continued selection problems in attack.

Prediction: Houston win

Los Angeles @ Kansas City – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Bruce Arena's side faces a stiff test as it heads to CommunityAmerica Ballpark in search of its fifth straight win. Kansas City's pressing style makes it difficult for teams to locate space on the narrow CAB field, so the Galaxy will have to use its technique to combine well when possible and employ Edson Buddle as the outlet up front to relieve some of the pressure. Buddle's stellar form presents the Wizards' back four with its most formidable test of the campaign to date, particularly if Jimmy Conrad (questionable – left calf strain) can't play. A similar theme applies down the other end of the field as the Galaxy defense – a unit that could be bolstered by Gregg Berhalter's possible return from left knee soreness – will have to mitigate Kei Kamara and Ryan Smith in the wide areas and force the Wizards to play through the middle. While the Wizards should threaten the Galaxy's defense more frequently than any other opponent this season, Kansas City may not generate enough of an advantage to overcome a run of one win in ten meetings (1-4-5 since the start of the 2005 season) against the visitors.

Prediction: Draw.

San Jose @ Chivas USA – 10:30p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel) – Goal.com Preview

The direction of this match could turn on the effectiveness of the wide players for both sides. San Jose wingers Bobby Convey and Joey Gjertsen have submitted solid shifts during the Earthquakes' two-game winning streak. Chivas USA would love to say the same for its wingers, but the Red-and-White struggles when asked to spread the field and play in the wide areas. The problem for Martin Vasquez's side is that it hasn't proven effective in attack through the middle of the park either. Case in point: Chivas USA enters the match with two goals in four matches. While most of the tendencies point toward a San Jose result, this game looms as a potential trap for the Earthquakes for three reasons: (1) they broke the .500 barrier for the first time during their reincarnation with the 2-0 win over New England last weekend, (2) they have yet to defeat the Red-and-White (0-3-2) the second time around, and (3) they have yet to defeat any team at the Home Depot Center since their rebirth (0-3-2). A draw probably represents the best bet, but the Red-and-White earns the upset nod here based on the need for an emphatic response after a limp defeat at Houston last weekend.

Prediction: Chivas USA win.

Sunday

Seattle @ Toronto FC – 2:00p.m. (CBC) – Goal.com Preview

Sounders FC coach Sigi Schmid dropped Freddie Ljungberg and Pat Noonan against FC Dallas in advance of this match, but the rotation plan may have hit a snag when Noonan picked up a hamstring injury during his stint as a second half sub. Noonan's knock doesn't even register as the most important concern for the Seattle medical staff after Kasey Keller left the game at halftime with blurred vision. While Terry Boss looked assured at Frisco, it's safe to say the difference in atmosphere between Pizza Hut Park and BMO Field could pose a problem or two for the untested keeper. Even with those injury troubles and the inevitable fatigue of playing two matches in four days, Seattle should find a way to emerge with a point in Toronto. The reason for the optimism, aside from TFC's early stumbles: Sounders FC's strengths – wide play through Ljungberg (if deployed on the right) and Steve Zakuani and solid defense from a resolute back four – dovetail nicely against the Reds' current weaknesses. It remains to be seen whether TFC can overcome its shaky start at both ends of the field in time to take advantage of Seattle's hectic travel itinerary.

Prediction: Draw.

Week 7
The Forecast lauds Montreal's MLS arrival before discussing its Week 7 choices.
May 7, 2010
By Kyle McCarthy

Manchester United grabbed the headlines by announcing its four-game tour of the United States on Thursday, but Montreal will pluck the heartstrings when it declares its arrival as the 19th MLS team on Friday morning.

The announcement caps the Impact's long and tumultuous ascent to the American top flight. Protracted exchanges over franchise fees and stadium expansion plans threatened Montreal's inclusion at various points over the past few years, but MLS and the Saputo family eradicated those concerns over the past few months to place Montreal in the front of the expansion pack.

Montreal represented the best expansion choice for quite some time now, at least according to articles penned by yours truly – found here and here – over the past couple of years. After a long and winding road, MLS concurred. When Montreal finally takes the field in 2012, the benefits to MLS and to Canadian soccer will almost certainly be worth the angst and the wait.

Last week: 3/8 (38%)
For the season: 17/40 (43%)

Saturday

Los Angeles @ Seattle – 4:00p.m. (Telefutura) – Goal.com Preview

Sigi Schmid needed to try something different last weekend, so he switched to a 4-3-3 to provide his team with more options in the attacking third. The new formation, however, didn't cure the old finishing problems. Seattle continues to create an ample amount of chances in front of goal without finishing enough of them. Los Angeles makes creating opportunities difficult with its miserly back four, though Colorado managed to squander at least a couple in the Galaxy's 1-0 win on Wednesday night. Edson Buddle may not have scored against the Rapids – stop the presses! – but he once again showed all the hallmarks of a striker in form. The question is whether Buddle and his Galaxy teammates will have their legs in the second half after playing at altitude on Wednesday night, but the visitors should find a way to replicate Columbus' effort from last Saturday and lean on their strong defensive core to snatch a point.

Prediction: Draw.

Chicago @ Toronto FC – 4:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

The Reds almost have to obtain all three points in this match as they contemplate a grueling schedule over the next two weeks. After playing the Fire on Saturday afternoon, TFC faces three consecutive road matches with trips to Montreal (Canadian Championship), Los Angeles and Vancouver (Canadian Championship) on the docket before a home date with New England. It's tough to see TFC picking up points against the Galaxy, so notching a result here takes on greater significance. In order to collect the necessary three points, TFC will have to compete with the Fire's five-man midfield and mitigate the danger posed by Patrick Nyarko on the right flank by providing Raivis Hscanovics with sufficient support. Given its solid home form this season and the urgency of the situation, TFC should find a way to accomplish its goal.

Prediction: Toronto FC win.

Philadelphia @ Real Salt Lake – 4:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

RSL just keeps plugging away without Javier Morales. The Argentine playmaker missed his third consecutive match in last Saturday's 2-1 home win over Toronto FC. Good news arrived earlier this week, however, as Morales may be able to recover from illness in order to take his usual spot at the tip of the Claret-and-Cobalt's midfield diamond. Philadelphia's best bet to congest Morales' (or likely deputy Andy Williams') space in midfield – Stefani Miglioranzi – will miss out through suspension, so the onus falls on the other Union midfielders to compete gamely against RSL's relentless industry and creative nous in the center of the park. Chris Seitz will likely face a barrage as he returns to Rio Tinto Stadium for the first time in enemy colors. Although Seitz has smoothed out some of the rough edges in his game over the last week or two, the Claret-and-Cobalt should find a way past its former number two with a couple of those efforts and extend its home unbeaten streak to 13 matches.

Prediction: Real Salt Lake win.

New England @ Columbus – 7:00p.m. (Fox Soccer Channel) – Goal.com Preview

Although the Crew is one of only two undefeated teams remaining in MLS, the Supporters' Shield holders likely believe they can play better than they have in the first four games. They could have hardly asked for a better opportunity to submit a comprehensive statement of their intent as the reeling Revolution visit in the midst of a four-match winless streak (0-3-1). New England simply can't keep the ball with Shalrie Joseph (leave of absence) unavailable and the constant pressure on the back four has led the normally resolute Revs to concede sloppy goals. The situation doesn't figure to improve much against the Crew with offensive fulcrum Marko Perovic suspended after lashing out during Wednesday's 4-0 pasting by Chivas USA. While Columbus will miss the versatile Danny O'Rourke due to his second one-match ban of the campaign, the Crew can call upon the fit again Chad Marshall (left hamstring strain) and Gino Padula (left MCL sprain), according to the Columbus Dispatch. New England will almost certainly offer a better performance at Crew Stadium than it did on Wednesday night, but don't expect the Crew to drop any points here.

Prediction: Columbus win.

D.C. United @ FC Dallas – 8:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Both sides should enter this match on a high after claiming their first wins of the season on Wednesday night. United rode Danny Allsopp's double, Bill Hamid's sterling debut and a more direct approach to a 2-1 win over Kansas City, while Ugo Ihemelu's late header gave FCD a 1-0 win at Houston and the rights to El Capitan. FCD will have to make at least one change after Jair Benitez's dismissal against the Dynamo, but Schellas Hyndman could plug Jeff Cunningham (knee) into the lineup if he's healthy enough to start and slide two players – Atiba Harris and Heath Pearce – into their normal positions to accommodate his return. One team figures to revert to its old habits and D.C. looks like the most probable option to do so. While United lifted a weight off its shoulders by securing Curt Onalfo's first win, its rickety back line won't stand up to the intense pressure FCD will heap upon it at Pizza Hut Park.

Prediction: FC Dallas win.

New York @ San Jose – 10:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

San Jose collected all three points in a fairly similar fixture against Colorado last weekend. Chris Wondolowski scored his third goal in three games to give the Earthquakes all three points against the Rapids, so the Red Bulls will have to keep a keen eye on the previously goal-shy striker to ensure he doesn't extend his torrid run of form. Opposing forwards haven't benefited from similar hot streaks in the Bay Area this season as the Earthquakes have conceded just once in three home matches. Juan Pablo Angel (four goals in his past three matches) will certainly threaten that record, particularly if Ike Opara doesn't rejoin the club immediately after finishing up his semester at Wake Forest earlier this week. This battle looks like it will veer toward the tight and compact end of the spectrum. At this venue and with these teams on the field, it should lead to an equal distribution of the points.

Prediction: Draw.

Houston @ Chivas USA – 10:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

Dominic Kinnear's first objective at the Home Depot Center: get out of the first half without losing a starter. One member of the starting XI has limped off the field injured in five of the Dynamo's seven matches this season. Eddie Robinson (sprained left knee) joined the parade in Wednesday night's disappointing 1-0 home defeat to 10-man FC Dallas, so Kinnear will probably to slot Ryan Cochrane into central defense to replace him. Houston can't afford to reproduce Wednesday night's performance against an in-form Chivas USA side that hasn't lost in its past three matches. Martin Vasquez's charges entered Gillette Stadium loose and confident and played like it from the opening whistle. If the Dynamo want to snatch a point from this match and give Brian Ching something to cheer about upon his possible return from a left hamstring strain, they'll have to disrupt the rhythm of the Red-and-White midfielders – a group missing Michael Lahoud (suspension) for a second straight game – and limit Sacha Kljestan's contributions. It won't be an easy task, but Houston may be up to it after Wednesday night's defeat.

Prediction: Draw.

Week 9
The Forecast wonders whether Robert Pires will adapt to MLS after his comments about Philadelphia and then reveals its Week 9 picks.
May 21, 2010
By Kyle McCarthy

Robert Pires didn't make any friends in Philadelphia yesterday.

In a case of foot-in-mouth disease at distinct odds with his silky play in the wide areas, the former Arsenal star said he planned to reject his anticipated move to the Union because he didn't find the City of Brotherly Love aesthetically acceptable.

“It does not please me,” Pires told French reporters. “I do not want to be difficult, but left to take my family away, I'd rather do it in a beautiful city. Otherwise, I will put an end to my career.”

While Pires' comments do not reflect whether he retains the ability to influence MLS matches, they do raise questions about whether he would make a suitable addition to the peculiar MLS environment.

If Pires turns his nose up at Philadelphia and declares his distaste for a rather wonderful city, how will he react when he confronts the vagaries of toiling away in MLS? How will he cope with the turf fields? What about the US Open Cup matches at ramshackle venues? Will the agricultural challenges inspire disgust? Will he have the gumption and the humility to work through those problems?

Playing in MLS requires a certain ability to work through a unique set of circumstances in order to thrive. This exchange should bring those issues into stark relief by presenting each side with distinct choices. Pires can choose where he wants to live and determine whether he possesses the personality to adapt to those peculiarities. MLS can choose whether it wants to sign him and whether it will be worth the trouble. It remains to be seen after yesterday's faux pas whether those desires can intersect at a point that suits both parties.

Last week: 3/7 (43%)
For the season: 24/54 (44%)

Saturday

New England @ Toronto FC – 1:00p.m. (CBC) – Goal.com Preview

The circumstances surrounding these two clubs have changed considerably since the Revolution trounced the Reds 4-1 at Gillette Stadium on April 10. New England hasn't won in the following six matches, while Toronto FC has grabbed points in four out of their past six contests. The main protagonist for TFC, Dwayne De Rosario, will miss this match while away on international duty, so the onus falls on Chad Barrett and O'Brian White to continue their recent form and pick up the attacking slack. Preki will also have to replace Maksim Usanov (one-match ban) and may have to sit Julian de Guzman (hamstring) after he wasn't fit enough to join De Rosario in Argentina. No matter who takes the field for the Reds, they'll have to offer some ingenuity in the final third and submit an earnest shift after the midweek slog in Vancouver in order to pick up the expected three points.

Prediction: Toronto FC win.

San Jose @ Seattle – 3:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

This particular matchup presents problems for Sounders FC. Opposing teams often enter Qwest Field with the expressed desire to make it difficult for Seattle to break them down. San Jose should follow suit, particularly because the Earthquakes haven't conceded in their past three games. In order to break down the resolute San Jose rearguard, Seattle will have to find a way to stretch the game and use its pace to exploit the Earthquakes' comparatively slower defenders. Seattle coach Sigi Schmid may be tempted to recall Fredy Montero after his matchwinner at New York last Saturday, a move that would add some guile and some incisiveness in front of goal while reducing workrate. Snagging all three points could be difficult if Osvaldo Alonso (right quadriceps strain) misses a second straight game, but Sounders FC should use the boost from the win at New York to reverse the indifferent run of home form to start the season.

Prediction: Seattle win.

D.C. United @ Houston – 8:00p.m. (Telefutura) – Goal.com Preview

Dynamo coach Dominic Kinnear will breathe a sigh of relief after Joseph Ngwenya received clearance to finally return to Houston this week. Kinnear needs some attacking choices with Brian Ching away with the United States and Cam Weaver (right knee strain) still making his way back from injury. Ngwenya will likely start on the bench and perhaps enter the fray in the second half, but the Dynamo can't afford to wait until the Zimbabwean striker enters the match to find its rhythm. United continues to struggle in front of goal (six scoreless efforts in eight matches) and in most facets of the game, so a high-tempo start may weaken D.C.'s resolve away from home. Then again, United may look at the Dynamo's binary pattern of wins and losses so far this season and realize a result just isn't in the cards this weekend.

Prediction: Houston win.

Real Salt Lake @ Chivas USA – 10:30p.m. – Goal.com Preview

It's all about the ball in this clash. Both teams want it, need it and thrive when they have it. The onus will fall on Chivas USA to find a way to continue its easy-on-the-eyes possession game with attacking lynchpin Sacha Kljestan trying to impress Bob Bradley in New Jersey. Jose Macotelo or Osael Romero could slot right into Kljestan's free role behind Justin Braun if Martin Vasquez opts for a straight switch, but there are other more complex choices available if he believes his side will need more industry in central midfield to help Blair Gavin and Ben Zemanski cope with a stiff test. An entertaining draw for the neutrals looks like it could be in the cards here.

Prediction: Draw.

Sunday

Columbus @ Kansas City – 4:00p.m. – Goal.com Preview

The Crew needed to make a statement and Thursday's 3-1 win at New York certainly did that. Perhaps the only problem: the victory came without the suspended Guillermo Barros Schelotto. The Argentine playmaker will certainly press for a recall, though coach Robert Warzycha may wonder how his introduction will impact a side constructed to punish the other team's mistakes. In order to prevail at CommunityAmerica Ballpark on short rest, the Crew will have to rely Eddie Gaven's inspired form – the ex-Metrostar excelled against his former club – and rotate intelligently to add some fresh legs at the back. As for the home side, the Wizards need to start off well and cut out those errors at the back. Even with the Crew at less than full strength on the short rest, it's tough to bet against a side that always seems to find a way to emerge victorious.

Prediction: Columbus win.