FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami Betting Picks & Prediction (July 16, 2025)

FC Cincinnati will host Inter Miami on Wednesday at TQL Stadium, and it’s only a few days after losing the Hell is Real Derby. Ouch.

Miami has fared a little better, losing only once in league play since May 18. Cincinnati needs points to keep up with the top of the East, and there’s a lot of pressure to fix breakdowns on both ends after a really sloppy performance against Columbus.

The Blue and the Orange both have expectations for this one, and this big question is if Cincinnati can disrupt Miami’s tempo and limit Lionel Messi and his seemingly magical feet involvement in the buildup. If they can’t? Miami has the pieces to take over.

Keep scrolling to see all of the info; we’ve got the main trends, specific player matchups, betting odds, a tactical preview, and our picks for the four best bets!

Match Details

• Matchup:FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami CF
• Date & Time: Wednesday, July 16, 7:30 pm ET
• Venue: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
• How To Watch: MLS Season Pass (Apple TV)
• Why It Matters: The winner can take the lead in the Top Eastern Conference standings

Head-to-Head & Team Form

In the head-to-head and team form categories, here are the stats for FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami:

• Inter Miami leads the all-time series 5–4–2 through 11 matchups, with an average of nearly 3.8 goals per game. The fixtures have been regularly open, with space in wide areas and breakdowns in transition shaping most of the scoring.
• FC Cincinnati has won four of their last five in league pla, but were exposed defensively in a 4–2 loss to Columbus. Inter Miami are unbeaten in their last five, scoring 17 in that span, all driven by Messi, who’s found the net in six in a row.
• The numbers back a high-event match once again: 64% of the head-to-heads have seen both teams score, and 60% have finished with at least three goals. Both sides have good attacking form, and neither has shut down games against top-tier opponents so far this season.

Betting Odds

BetMGM Sportsbook has the latest odds and lines if you are looking to wager on this game:

Top Storylines

Messi is coming in with 10 goals and 5 assists in his last 5 matches. At his current pace? He’s closing in on the MLS single-season scoring record, and there’s over a third of the season left!

Cincinnati has averaged 1.67 goals per home match and relies really heavily on Ottoman Evander, who leads the team with 13 goals and ranks among the best in shot-creating actions.

Miami has scored in six straight road games and doesn’t play scared when they’re not at home. BTTS has hit in 79% of their road fixtures, and most of their goals happen in the first 60 minutes.

On the defensive side of things, Miami has conceded 18 goals in its last seven league matches, and it’s one of the worst stretches in the East. Cincinnati is coming off a 4-goal collapse against Columbus and still looks really disorganized in transition.

Tactical Preview

Our Best Bets

Look below for what we feel are the four best bets for this match!

Cincinnati vs. Miami: Final Thoughts and Betting Takeaways

Messi’s scoring streak has totally redefined how teams prepare for Miami, and his recent run of nine goals in five matches changes how Cincinnati will need to defend in their own half.

FCC usually controls the matches at TQL, but their 4-goal collapse against Columbus raised a lot of concerns about their spacing and coverage.

For bettors, the smartest angles are in goals, not on the results. Both sides create volume in the final third, and neither back line has shown a ton of stability over the last month. Match-winner markets are more volatile, but the scoring outlook is way more predictable!

Best Bets Recap

• Both Teams to Score: 8/10
• Over 3 Goals: 7/10
• Messi Anytime Scorer: 9/10
• Full-Time Draw: 6/10

Final Score Prediction: FC Cincinnati 2 – 2 Inter Miami CF

Cincinnati can break through with movement from Denkey and Evander if they control the midfield. Miami’s front line, led by Messi, keeps converting chances at a high rate and will push Cincinnati’s back line with pace and overloads.

Neither defense has held up well against playoff-level attacks, and that makes a higher-scoring draw a really strong possibility!

If you’re ready to place a wager on this matchup, be sure to only do it at betting sites you can trust. This will ensure your money is safe and you’ll be paid out your winnings quickly/

Indiana Fever vs. Connecticut Sun Prediction (July 15, 2025)

The Connecticut Sun are coming back to Boston for a high-profile game against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever at TD Garden.

Only two players from last year’s Sun roster are still on the team from their 69–61 win over the Sparks on August 21, 2024; the night that sold out the arena with 20,000 fans watching their first live WNBA game.

Another sellout is expected Tuesday, and that’s the routine whenever Clark and the Fever are in the house. There’s another backstory, though; Connecticut and Indiana have a nasty history. After facing off in a really physical first-round playoff series last year, it escalated again during their June 17 matchup, when the Sun lost 88–71.

That night included two separate confrontations, three ejections, and a third-quarter incident where Jacy Sheldon poked Clark in the eye. Sophie Cunningham fouled Sheldon really hard on a fast break.

It’ll be a tense and exciting game given the history between the teams! Will there be fouls galore? Who do we think will win? Keep scrolling to see team analysis, betting odds, matchups, and our three best bets.

Game Details

• Date & Time: Tuesday, July 15; at 8:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm CT
• Venue: TD Garden, Boston
• How to Watch: Nationally on ESPN
• Main storylines: The Caitlin Clark “effect” means a packed Boston arena; the Fever are on a three-game road win streak, coming in at 11‑10; the Sun are 3‑18, but just broke a 10-game losing streak

Team Analysis

Indiana has a really defined core, reliable scorers, and one of the league’s best assist rates. Connecticut is coming in with a negative point margin, a rotating lineup, and a staff that’s still adapting to an overhaul.

Betting Lines & Trends

Thinking about betting on this one? Here are the current odds and lines courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook:

• ATS Records: Fever are 11–10 ATS with 11 games over the total; Sun are 10–11 ATS with 9 Over games

Gameflow & Matchups

• Indiana’s edge: The Fever creates spacing through Clark’s off-ball movement and Boston’s post position on the first action, and it’s usually within the first 8–10 seconds of the shot clock. Their transition offense comes off long rebounds and quick outlet passes, and they’ve won four of their last six by 10 or more.
• Connecticut’s issue: The Sun averages under 73 points and doesn’t have a reliable shot creator in late-clock situations. Turnovers are still a big factor, and their help defense breaks down when opponents move the ball laterally across the top of the key.
• X-factor: If Indiana gets Clark into double-digit assists by the third quarter and Boston continues to draw help on the block? This’ll be one-sided.

Our Best Bets

Our Take: Lock In These Picks

Caitlin Clark is making her debut at TD Garden, and the Fever have been playing their best bball of the season. They’re organized, scoring, and forcing opponents to match their tempo, and that’s something that Connecticut can’t do at this point. The Sun is in the midst of a rebuild, short on playmakers, and plain overmatched in this one.

Best Bets Recap

• Fever –15.5 (–110): ★★★★★
• Over 166.5 Total Points (–110): ★★★☆☆
• Fever Moneyline (–1700): ★★★★★ (parlay anchor only)

Final Score Prediction:  Indiana Fever 91 – Connecticut Sun 72

Indiana builds a double-digit lead by halftime and extends it in the third; the Total goes over 165 based on early game pace and scoring; Clark or Mitchell leads the scoring, and both will get favorable looks against Connecticut’s slow perimeter rotations!

The Evolution of Online Gambling: What Will It Look Like in 2030?

2030 sounds like it’s a long ways away, but it’s only five years. That’s not a lot of time! Do you think we’ll finally have flying cars like we all thought way back in the early aughts? It could still happen, but it doesn’t look promising.

Anyhoo, that brings us to our topic for today. What will online gambling look like in 2030? We won’t have flying casinos (or cars), but there will definitely be some changes!

Online gambling has already made leaps and bounds from its dial-up modem beginnings. In the mid-1990s, logging into a rudimentary casino site on a desktop was a novelty, but now? Millions of people can play every casino game that exists or make sports bets from their smartphones.

The industry’s growth shows the mainstream surge; some estimates say that the global online gambling market could reach around $150 billion by 2030. With that kind of growth comes a lot of innovation. Operators in the US, UK, and elsewhere are competing to implement new tech and adapt to what players want.

What could online gambling look like in 2030? The next five years could change how (and where) we play. Players already want more immersive and convenient ways to gamble, and regulatory landscapes are trying to keep up (or sometimes, to rein things in). 

We are gonna go on a trip to the past and into the near future! Get in our non-flying car and come with us as we explore the evolution of online gambling and what it could look like in 2030!

A Look Back: How Far Online Gambling Has Come

To appreciate where online gambling is going, it’s worth remembering its really humble origins! Below is a timeline of the biggest milestones from the 90s to the present.

The Technology Driving the Future

Technology is the rocket fuel for online gambling’s growth, and we’re already seeing the next stage boosters ignite. By 2030, several key tech advancements that are emerging now will likely become integral parts of the online gambling experience. Next up, we’ll look at three of the most talked-about: AI and personalization, augmented/virtual reality, and blockchain/cryptocurrency integration!

Gamification and Social Gambling 2.0

Forget the old-school image of someone mindlessly clicking “spin” on a slot machine. Gamification is where it’s at! Players want interactive features so that they can compete with other players, unlock achievements, climb up leaderboards, finish missions, and make bets on content that’s live-streamed. They want to participate while they bet! 

Gambling platforms are increasingly borrowing the design principles that make video games addictive—but aiming them at real-money players. That means things like progression systems (leveling up the more you play), XP bars, unlockable bonuses, and daily missions that give players more to “do” than just spin or bet. It’s not enough to just offer the game—there needs to be a reason to come back tomorrow.

Earning Your Way Up

Gamification taps into players’ desire to achieve. A lot of modern casinos now track your play through tiered loyalty systems—gold, platinum, diamond, and so on—but the framing is evolving. Instead of passive reward points, we’re seeing active “quests” like “complete five blackjack hands today for a bonus,” or “win on three different games in one session to unlock a chest.” These mechanics make gambling feel more like goal-based entertainment and less like a string of random outcomes.

Players are also responding to systems that visually show their progress. That might mean an XP meter filling up as you bet, or badges and trophies you can collect over time. It gives a sense of purpose to each session—win or lose, you’re still earning something. For some, it’s not about the money at all—it’s about ticking off objectives and ranking higher.

Betting with the Crowd

Another piece of this evolution is the social layer. Gambling used to be a solo activity online. That’s changing fast. Some casinos are adding live chat rooms, group challenges, or the ability to follow and copy other players’ bets. Friends lists, public profiles, and multiplayer competitions are all becoming more common—think online bingo’s community vibe, but applied to poker, slots, or sportsbook picks.

Public leaderboards are one of the most popular examples. They show the biggest winners, most active players, or highest multipliers of the day, and often come with bragging rights or bonus prizes. There’s also been a rise in pooled betting: a group of players contributing to a shared pot and splitting the winnings, or playing as a team in a live event.

Some platforms are also testing audience-integrated live streams—where you’re watching a game and can bet in real time on the outcome, or interact with the streamer through tipping, polls, or mini-bets. It’s gambling meets Twitch, and for a younger generation raised on streaming, that hybrid experience could become a huge draw.

Playing to Participating

The big takeaway? Gambling is becoming so much more than just wagering—it’s evolving into an activity with structure, social engagement, and personal milestones. That doesn’t mean every player wants all the bells and whistles; some will always want a simple blackjack hand or a straight-up bet, but the next generation is being courted with experiences that feel more dynamic, more personalized, and more connected.

Gamification and social play aren’t add-ons anymore. They’re becoming core features of how digital gambling works, and by 2030? We could look back at today’s static interfaces the way we now look at dial-up internet. Functional, but super outdated.

Regulation: Stricter, Smarter, Global?

If there’s one thing every gambling operator agrees on, it’s this: the era of “light-touch” oversight is over. As online gambling becomes more mainstream—and more lucrative—governments are paying closer attention. They’re not just watching from a distance, either. Regulators are rolling up their sleeves and getting involved in how platforms verify identities, promote games, track data, and protect players. And by 2030, that scrutiny won’t just increase—it’ll evolve.

We’re not talking about more of the same, though. Regulation is getting more intelligent, leaning on technology like AI and blockchain to automate what used to require armies of compliance staff. At the same time, regulators across regions are starting to realize they can’t operate in silos anymore. When a player in New Jersey is gambling on a UK-licensed site using crypto from a Swiss wallet, lines get blurry fast. Global coordination isn’t just a nice idea—it’s becoming a necessity.

These trends aren’t speculative guesses—they’re already happening. The next five years will be about scale, enforcement, and whether the tech that enables smoother gambling experiences can also be harnessed to build smarter oversight. If done well, regulation in 2030 might not just be stricter; it might be more effective without being more invasive. If done poorly, it could push players and operators toward offshore markets and fragmented user experiences.

The Role of Big Data and Predictive Analytics

Online gambling already knows a lot about how we play, but by 2030? It’ll know how we might play next. Every click, bet, deposit, and pause generates a data point. And operators aren’t just sitting on that info—they’re feeding it into machines that are designed to find patterns, flag risks, and predict behavior with scary accuracy.

It isn’t just marketing; it’s also about shaping the entire gambling experience in real time. Odds are being adjusted on the fly based on live game data and betting activity. AI is crunching numbers in the background to figure out which players are likely to burn out, which might go cold, and which are primed for a retention bonus.

This arms race—between operators trying to keep the edge, and players trying to outsmart the system—raises some important questions. How much data is fair game?

• If a casino knows you play more after a loss, should it design offers around that?
• If a bettor has a predictive model better than the house’s, should the operator limit them?

These “edge wars” are only going to heat up, and regulation hasn’t fully caught up to that reality.

By 2030, data won’t just mold how games are built or how bets are offered; it’ll influence who gets to play, how much they’re encouraged to bet, and when a system decides something’s off. Whether or not that creates a smarter, safer ecosystem or something more dystopian depends on how the industry handles the power that it has.

What Players Want by 2030

By the time 2030 rolls around, players won’t be impressed that your app loads quickly or that you can log in with Face ID. That’s table stakes. What players will care about is if they can pick up a bet where they left off on another device, get their winnings instantly, and not feel like they’re wrestling with menus or payment systems.

Think Netflix, but for gambling. Same slick interface everywhere. Same intuitive flow. You tap, you play, you’re done. And if your money isn’t back in your account within minutes of a win? You’ll probably go elsewhere.

Players also expect a platform that feels like their platform. Not just in terms of games or odds, but how those options are presented. If someone only ever bets on UFC fights and plays blackjack on weekends, why would they want to scroll past bingo promotions or horse racing odds?

By 2030, gambling apps will need to work like Spotify or Amazon; learning from behavior, adjusting layouts and offers spontaneously, and making it feel like the platform “gets” you. And if it doesn’t? That friction is enough to make users bounce to the next site.

Show Me the Terms (And Make Them Make Sense)

Transparency is also becoming a non-negotiable. Players are tired of fine print buried in promo pages, or odds that look good until you realize they’re buried behind fees or rollover rules. By 2030, players will demand terms that are crystal clear, up front, and written like they’re for actual humans, not lawyers.

They’ll also expect personalization without feeling surveilled. It’s a tightrope: give players what they want without creeping them out. But the platforms that figure it out, the ones that make gambling feel fun, fair, and frictionless, will earn long-term loyalty in a market that is getting more crowded every year.

Expert Predictions & Industry Speculation

Industry experts all tend to agree on one thing: by 2030, online gambling will be more social, more personalized, and far more integrated with other forms of entertainment. At a 2025 Next.io panel, leaders summed it up like this: Generic digital gambling is fading, and what’s taking its place is a tailored, engaging, and interactive experience. Playtech’s Jonathan Doubilet said that innovation isn’t optional anymore. Simply putting casino games online isn’t enough. You’ve got to give players something different.

Tech Will Drive the Shift

VR and AR are high on the industry’s watchlist. Some predict every major operator will offer a virtual experience—initially as a novelty or VIP perk, but potentially a real differentiator if headset adoption expands. Meta, Apple, and Sony are all investing heavily in immersive tech, and the gambling industry is ready to follow if users come.

AI is another focal point, not just for backend analytics but player-facing tools. There’s speculation we could see AI betting assistants—tools that recommend bets based on your preferences or stats. BetMGM’sOliver Bartlett highlighted how AI can help players sort through overwhelming game libraries, which could become the norm as content libraries get even larger.

The Entertainment Convergence

Experts also expect the lines between gambling, gaming, and social media to blur. Some predict casinos will integrate non-gambling content, like live concerts, comedy shows, or game streamers, into their platforms. The so-called “metaverse casino” isn’t only a concept anymore. Gambling might soon be embedded in virtual spaces where players can socialize, watch events, and place bets in the same ecosystem.

Blockchain’s Long Game

Crypto and blockchain aren’t going anywhere, either. While full decentralization may not take over, experts widely agree that by 2030, crypto will be as normal as credit cards in a lot of markets. Smart contracts could also automate payouts and build player trust. Some envision regulators issuing licenses and audit trails on-chain, offering transparency in ways traditional systems can’t match.

Market Size, Media Mergers, and Consolidation

Growth projections are bullish across the board. Some firms estimate the global online gambling market will hit $150–170 billion by 2030. Sports betting alone could approach $200 billion globally. With numbers like that, it’s no surprise that experts expect more mergers and acquisitions. Flutter, Entain, and DraftKings might continue consolidating, while tech or media companies could enter the space. The ESPN/PENN Entertainment deal in 2023 was likely only the beginning.

In the U.S., experts predict the crowd of sportsbook brands will thin out. A handful of major players may dominate by 2030, with niche operators carving out smaller, loyal followings. In the meantime, some industry insiders believe media platforms will seek deeper integrations—possibly turning streaming apps or social feeds into real-time betting hubs.

There’s also a very real risk of regulatory whiplash. A scandal in one market could cause others to panic. If gambling becomes too politicized, expansion plans may face more roadblocks than expected.

From the Experts

A few important predictions from insiders:

• “Those that stick to outdated models will lose user trust and revenue.” Ed Andrewes (Resorts Digital) says personalization is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a baseline.
• Karolina Pelc (BeyondPlay) is building multiplayer experiences because she sees the social layer as the next competitive edge.
• Execs at DraftKings and FanDuel continue investing in original content, betting that a media-entertainment hybrid keeps users engaged longer.

Content Will Keep Morphing

By 2030, the concept of a “casino game” might expand beyond slots and cards. Evolution Gaming has already pushed the boundaries with game-show style formats. Some experts believe we’ll eventually see video game hybrids, where skill-based elements mix with random rewards, or games feel more like first-person adventures with gambling mechanics layered in.

Even lotteries might evolve. Though often slow to modernize, experts say state-run games may have to adapt—possibly by embedding lottery mechanics into digital-first platforms or collaborating with casinos to stay relevant to younger audiences.

Challenges That Could Slow Progress

Plenty of innovation is happening, but not without obstacles. Legal frameworks remain uneven across markets, with operators navigating a patchwork of rules that can change quickly and limit where and how platforms grow.

• There’s also mounting pressure around player safety. The more gambling shifts toward customized experiences, the more questions arise about behavioral tracking, spending limits, and how platforms respond when use gets out of control.
• Privacy is another big concern. With AI, facial recognition, and biometric logins entering the picture, regulators and users alike are paying closer attention to how personal data is handled—and whether it stays secure.
• Finally, not every region is set up for the next wave of tech. Some areas still lack the infrastructure, bandwidth, or user readiness for features like real-time streaming, blockchain wallets, or immersive platforms. Growth is coming, but not every market will move at the same pace.

Conclusion: Adapt or Fold: 2030 Is Closer Than You Think

Online gambling is changing by the month. What used to be a basic web interface with a deposit button is now a learning system that responds to how you play, what you bet on, and when you stop. AI, blockchain, and immersive tech aren’t side features—they’re becoming the framework.

Operators who delay won’t have much ground left to stand on. The ones redesigning now—rethinking how bets are offered, how players are treated, and how platforms respond in real time to security concerns—will be the ones shaping what gambling looks like in 2030.

For players, it means more tools, more control, and more ways to engage—but also more systems working behind the curtain. The house is evolving. And so should everyone else!

Minnesota Lynx vs. Chicago Sky Prediction & Betting Picks (July 14, 2025)

Will the third time be a charm for the Minnesota Lynx or the Chicago Sky? Monday night marks the third game between the WNBA teams in 9 days, and it’s all tied up at 1-1.

The Lynx won the July 6 game 80–75, and the Sky pulled off an 87–81 win on July 12, which was fronted by Atkins’ 27 points and double-doubles from Reese and Cardoso. Now they play again at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena.

Chicago’s frontcourt gave a solid performance in the last one, and Minnesota’s main scorers couldn’t get going in that last one. The Lynx will try to reassert control, and the Sky wants to hit that same note with their size advantage.

Keep reading to find out what you need to know about the third game in what feels like a postseason series (it isn’t, but the back-to-back games make it seem that way). We’ve got the latest betting odds, a season overview, main matchups, and five picks for the best bets!

Game Details

• Matchup: Minnesota Lynx: 18–4 (West) vs. Chicago Sky: 7–13 (East)
• Date & Time: Monday, July 14; Tip-off at 8:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm CT
• Venue: Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL; Doors open at 6:00 pm local time for those going to the game
• How to Watch: National broadcast on ABC & streaming via ESPN+ and Fubo
• Series to Date (2025 Regular Season): The series is tied 1–1 going into this game; the Lynx won 80–75 on July 6; the Sky won 87–81 on July 12

Latest Betting Odds

If you’re betting on this game, here are the latest odds and lines via FanDuel:

Season Overview

How have the Lynx and the Sky been playing this season? Look below for their records:

Main Matchups

Here is who we’ll be watching during this game:

Napheesa Collier vs. Sky Defense

Collier scored 26 in the last game; she worked off high screens, duck-ins, and second-side movement. Chicago rotated help but just couldn’t close the gaps in time, leaving her room to operate inside and at the elbow. Expect Minnesota to keep her really active in those same spots and force Chicago’s defense into rushed decisions.

Angel Reese & Kamilla Cardoso Paint Prowess

Reese and Cardoso combined for 15 offensive boards and were the difference-makers on the glass in the fourth quarter. Cardoso sealed early in the possession to get high-percentage looks, and Reese crashed from the weak side and extended possessions. 

The Lynx need stronger rotations from their forwards to slow down those second-chance scores.

Backcourt Battle: Williams & Atkins

Courtney Williams has become Minnesota’s head ball-handler in half-court sets and transition; she uses quick changes of pace to create space for midrange looks. 

Ariel Atkins, who dropped 27 in the last game, found most of her shots curling off screens and attacking the soft spots in Minnesota’s coverage. The team that wins this one will likely control perimeter scoring.

Tactical Insights & Trends

• Game planning: After facing each other twice in a little over a week, these teams are familiar with each other’s games. Expect to see more switching on screens, less defensive breakdowns, and quicker adjustments to any mismatches.
• Chicago’s frontcourt: In Saturday’s win, Reese and Cardoso combined for almost half of the Sky’s rebounds, and 15 were on the offensive end. If Minnesota doesn’t put bodies on them early in the shot clock? It forces extra defensive possessions that wear down the back line.
• Defense: Minnesota runs through Collier and thrives when she draws contact on the inside. Chicago relies more on short jumpers and put-backs. This probably comes down to which team controls the paint, and not just at the rim, but on the boards and around the elbows.

Our Best Bets

For this bball matchup, we’ve zeroed in on three solid angles, a prop, and a parlay! Here are our picks for your best bets:

Will Minnesota Dominate or Will Chicago Keep It Close?

Chicago got their win, and now Minnesota gets the adjustment. The Lynx have the better offense, a complete roster, and the player with the highest usage rate, so it’s all sitting on one side, and the line still leaves room to hit!

Final Score Prediction:  Minnesota Lynx 89 – Chicago Sky 74

We’re playing the cover, having faith in the pace, and backing the big scorers.

Best Bets Recap

• Lynx –10.5 (–115): ★★★★☆
• Over 161.5 Total Points (–110): ★★★☆☆
• Napheesa Collier Over 23.5 Points: ★★★★☆
• Angel Reese Over 10.5 Rebounds: ★★★☆☆
• Same‑Game Parlay: Lynx –10.5 + Over 161.5 + Collier Over 23.5: CAUTION; High variance, but chance of a high payout

2025 Home Run Derby Predictions & Top Bets (July 14, 2025)

There is no defending champ in this year’s 2025 MLB Home Run Derby in Atlanta! Pete Alonso, who’s a two-time winner and perennial threat, chose not to participate, even though he was named to the All-Star roster. Ok, Pete! With Alonso opting out, you know what that means? One of the eight hitters on Monday night will walk away with their very first derby title!

Who do we think will take it? All of the names in the bracket are powerful sluggers, but the format, the matchups, and, of course, stamina will decide it. None of the hitters got here by accident; they all deserve to be here. But only one is leaving as the Derby king.

As always, we have some thoughts about who we think will emerge victorious (backed up by odds and stats, we aren’t just guessing), a breakdown of the hitters, live betting odds, our three top picks for the best bets, and the props to watch.

Ready to watch these eight hitters duke it out on the diamond? Batter up!

Event Details

• Date & Time: Monday, July 14, at 8 p.m. ET at Truist Park (Atlanta)
• TV Broadcast: ESPN/ESPN2
• Field of Eight: Cal Raleigh (SEA), Oneil Cruz (PIT), James Wood (WAS), Matt Olson (ATL), Brent Rooker (OAK), Byron Buxton (MIN), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (NYY), Junior Caminero (TB)
• Format: Round 1: 3 min or 40 pitches + bonus outs; Semis: top 4 bracketed head‑to‑head; Finals: 2 min/27 pitches, bonus/outs same as earlier rounds

Live Betting Odds (Outright Winner)

The 2025 Home Run Derby is divided into three rounds, so the outright winner odds will change after every matchup. If you’re betting before the first swing or hopping in later on, below are the live betting odds via ESPN BET:

Odds for this article updated at 9:00 am EST on July 14, 2025.

Player Rundown

• Cal Raleigh (+260): Leads the league in home runs and comes into this with the most raw pull-side lift in the field. He’s shown a ton of power from both sides of the plate all season.
• Oneil Cruz (+325): Cruz hits balls harder than almost anyone in the league. He’s also the tallest hitter in the bracket, so he has upper-deck range to all fields.
• James Wood (+400): Wood is only 22 years old, but he’s already hitting 450-foot shots in-game. He has quick hands and an easy launch, so this format suits him really well.
• Matt Olson (+700): Olson knows this park better than anyone, so he has the home crowd behind him.

Others

These are the long shots and why they’re considered as such:

• Brent Rooker (+850): Rooker has pull-heavy power and gets plenty of distance when he connects, but he has to keep the ball in the air; grounders will end his round early.
• Byron Buxton (+850): Buxton hits the ball hard when he’s healthy, but hasn’t shown a lot of lift or carry this season.
• Junior Caminero (+1000): Caminero has the hands and upper-tier exit velocity. It’s his lack of experience that makes him a long shot, not his power.
• Jazz Chisholm Jr. (+1200): He’s a fast bat, can elevate to right field, but he doesn’t have the same home run totals as the rest of the bracket does.

Format & Strategy Insights

• Bonus Time: One HR of 425+ ft in Round 1 earns 30 extra seconds.
• Tiebreakers: Longest HR wins the tie; there’s a swing-off if it’s still tied.
• What to Watch: Players with both power and stamina will last, and bonus time swings usually decide the round.

Our Best Bets

Where’s the best value for this year’s Home Run Derby? Look below for our three best bets and a bonus lean!

Props to Watch

Live Betting Opportunities

Final Swing: Who Will Rule the Derby?

How fun is it to watch players absolutely crush home runs? So fun! Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, this event is a blast. No matter who wins, we’re just happy to watch these sluggers knock ‘em out of the park for a couple of hours.

Best Bets Recap

We’re backing these three bets:

• Cal Raleigh to win (+260): Medium-High Confidence
• Oneil Cruz for Longest Home Run: Medium Confidence
• Over 238.5 Total Home Runs: Medium-High Confidence
  

Raleigh and the Over offer a lot of value at the current odds, but James Wood is the best mid-tier play. His power metrics hold up, and if he posts a strong first round? His price will drop quickly.

• Last-minute tip: Check Round 1 pairings and bonus swing triggers; those are the best chances for in-event value!

If you’ve got a number that you like, take it now. Once the first bracket starts, everything moves. And it’ll move fast because tons of people are betting on the funnest night in baseball!

Our Final Prediction:  We think that Cal Raleigh will win the 2025 Home Run Derby, beating Oneil Cruz 22–19 in the final.

Why? Because Raleigh’s swing doesn’t wear down, and he stays on plane without chasing any extra lift. The lefty pull power matches the ballpark, and he’ll keep his output steady across rounds. Sure, Cruz will have bigger individual totals at times, but Raleigh will put together the better full run.

Betting on the Home Run Derby can add some extra fun to watching the even. However, always make sure to do it responsibly. Placing bets on the Derby is meant to be entertaining just like the event itself. So don’t get carried away.

St. Louis CITY SC vs. Portland Timbers Prediction & Best Bets (July 13, 2025)

The St. Louis CITY SC is playing the Portland Timbers this Sunday. St. Louis has a home pitch advantage, and from the looks of how they’ve been playing? They’ll need it.

CITY SC has only three wins this season and just lost their third straight. They’re turning the ball over in really bad spots, the press isn’t landing, and nothing in the final third looks like it’s in any way connected.

Portland already beat St. Louis 2–1 this season and comes into this match hoping to solidify their hold on fourth place in the West. David da Costa has been defending wide, and the midfield is pushing higher lines, so the Timbers could very possibly make this another one-way match and lock down that fourth seed in the Western Conference.

Keep scrolling to read the head-to-head history, lineups, club news, tactical stats, betting odds, and our picks for the four best bets on this MLS game!

Match Details

• Matchup:St. Louis CITY FC (3‑6‑12, 15 pts; 14th in Western Conference) vs. Portland Timbers (9‑6‑5, 33 pts; 4th in West)
• Date & Time: Sunday, July 13, kickoff at 6:00 pm CT (7:00 pm ET)
• Venue: Energizer Park, St. Louis, MO (capacity ~22,423)
• How To Watch: MLS Season Pass (Apple TV); local coverage on regional TV

Head‑to‑Head & History

The all-time series is level at 2–2–2, but Portland has had the advantage in away fixtures; they’re undefeated in St. Louis and conceded only twice during three regular-season visits. They’ve controlled midfield in those matches, limiting CITY’s ability to press high or create from central areas.

• Last meeting: Portland won 2–1 at home, breaking a late deadlock with a near-post header off a corner. St. Louis had a really hard time defending set pieces and were outshot 13–7.

Team News & Predicted Lineups

St. Louis and Portland are both dealing with availability issues that will influence how they line up in this one! St. Louis are still thinned out in their defense, and Portland’s forward rotation will be limited by injuries. Below is the latest on who’s playing and who’s most likely to start.

St. Louis CITY SC (Interim coach: Ben Critchley)

• Defensive depth is stretched: Nilsson and Durkin are still sidelined; Morales and Alm haven’t looked so great when they’ve been called to the field.
• Boost in attack: Jimer Fory is back and brings hold-up play and an aerial threat in midfield; expect him to start, likely in a 3-5-2 setup to cover gaps in defense and add presence up front.

Predicted St. Louis lineup (3-5-2)

• GK: Diop
• CBs: Penilla, Fagúndez, Da Costa
• Wingbacks: Neuhaus (R), McGuire (L)
• Midfield: Budapest, Fory, Larentowicz
• Attack: Dzurjevic, Minadeo

Portland Timbers

• Injury notes: Antony, Lassiter, Rodriguez, and McGraw are all out, and this disrupts their depth and rotation options.
• Stable at the back: Goalkeeper Crepeau and central defenders are all scheduled to start, and that bolsters a back four that’s only 2 goals shy of clean sheets in four of five matches.

Predicted Portland lineup (4-3-3)

• GK: Crepeau
• Defense: Powell (R), Collins, Bouanga, Ajeti (L)
• Midfield: Chara, Nagbe, Asprilla
• Attack: Da Costa, Nunez, Moffat

Tactical Battles

• St. Louis back line under pressure: CITY’s defensive unit has been exposed lately. There’s been slow recovery, poor set-piece marking, and miscommunication between center backs. Portland’s system under Phil Neville has relied on coordinated movement and timely third-man runs, and that could exploit the instability.
• Goalkeeper matchup: Roman Bürki has faced more shots than any goalie in the West, and he’s usually bailing out defensive breakdowns. Maxime Crépeau’s distribution and control in the net give Portland an advantage in buildup and restarts.
• In-form strikers: João Klauss has found the net 5 times in his last 7, and it’s been off limited service. Kelsy’s movement and pace have created good chances in recent matches, and he’s starting to finish with a lot more consistency.

Betting Odds & Stats

If you’re betting on this MLS match, here are the latest odds and lines that are up on DraftKings:

St. Louis CITY SC: 27.8 xG vs. 33.7 xGA; 34 goals conceded across 21 matches (1.6 per 90)

Head-to-head trend: 5 of the last 6 meetings between them have ended with over 2.5 goals

Our Best Bets

We’ve looked at all of the available info, and here are the four best bets based on the stats!

Our Match Prediction & Betting Wrap-Up

Final Score Prediction: St. Louis CITY FC 2 – 2 Portland Timbers

St. Louis is coming in on a three-match slide and still has lots of unresolved issues in their back line. Portland has been the better club overall, but keeps dropping points when they’re on the road. Neither team stays in control for long periods, and that puts most of the weight on finishing and set-piece moments.

Best Bets Recap

• Over 2.5 Goals (8/10)
• BTTS – Yes (7/10)
• João Klauss Anytime Goalscorer (6/10)
• Full-Time Draw (5/10)

If the first goal happens early, totals and player props become more playable! Side markets carry more risk, so most of the betting value sits with goal-based angles.

Alcaraz vs. Sinner Wimbledon Final Prediction (July 13, 2025)

Two men are left standing at Wimbledon, and they meet on Centre Court to see who will win the poshest Grand Slam.

The players are Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, two of the best in the world, and make no mistake, it will be phenomenal tennis.

Alcaraz leads the head-to-head, but Sinner just ripped through Djokovic in straight sets to get to the final. He’s playing his best tennis of the season.

Alcaraz is after claiming a third straight Wimbledon title, and that’s something that hasn’t been done since Federer, Nadal, or Djokovic in the last 20 years. Sinner wants his first win here.

They played a brutal five-setter in the French Open Final, where Alcaraz won, and this is a rematch. Only this time it’s not on the slower clay surface, it’s on grass.

Will we be witnessing another epic five-set between these two like we saw at Roland Garros? Keep reading to find out all of the details. We’ve got the tactical matchup, betting odds, player profiles, and our picks for the four best bets!

Match Details

• Matchup: Carlos Alcaraz (World No. 2, two-time defending champion) vs. Jannik Sinner (World No. 1)
• Date & Time: Sunday, July 13, at 4:00 pm BST (11 am ET)
• Venue: Centre Court, All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Wimbledon, London, England
• Stakes: Alcaraz wants a Wimbledon three-peat. Sinner wants his first title at SW19 after losing to Alcaraz in the Roland Garros final
• How to Watch: ESPN, ESPN2, and streaming on ESPN+

Rematch & Rivalry Recap

Alcaraz and Sinner have played 12 times. Alcaraz has won eight. Their last match? It went five sets, five hours, and had three match points saved. Sinner almost had it. But Alcaraz took it.

Sinner’s been playing great tennis this season, and his game is more straightforward. Alcaraz’s game is way harder to read! He mixes shot height, pace, and placement better than anyone on tour at the moment.

This is the third major they’ve played in 13 months. The surface is the only thing that’s different.

Betting Odds

Here are the latest betting odds and lines via ESPN BET if you’re wagering on the men’s final:

Player Form

These are the two best men’s players in the world, but they play really different tennis. Here’s how they’ve looked this season: 

Alcaraz

• Two-time defending champion at Wimbledon; unbeaten here since 2022.
• Picked up another Queen’s Club title before the tournament.
• He’s serving with precision, finishing points early with his forehand, and keeping return games short.

Sinner

• He’s No. 1 in the world and coming off a straight-sets win over Djokovic: 6–3, 6–3, 6–4.
• This is his first Wimbledon final, and his first win against Djokovic on grass.
• Held serve in 48 of 52 games; has controlled the tempo without needing long rallies.

Main Tactical Matchups

• Serve & Second-Ball Control: Alcaraz generates more pace on his first serve but misses targets more often. Sinner steps in early and wallops second serves. If Alcaraz isn’t landing a high first-serve percentage? Sinner will force shorter points.
• Shot Tolerance on Grass: Both are capable of holding up in longer rallies, but Sinner’s timing has looked better through contact. On this surface, Alcaraz’s heavier spin doesn’t always get the same bite when the ball stays low.
• Closing Sets Under Pressure: Alcaraz pulled out multiple close sets in their Roland Garros final and has come through really difficult service games this week. Sinner hasn’t had a lot of high-leverage scorelines since the second round. If the match is close in a third or fourth set, his decisions on big points could very well be the decider.

Our Best Bets

How are we playing the Alcaraz–Sinner final? Look below for our four best bets!

Alcaraz vs. Sinner – What to Expect

Sinner hasn’t lost a set since the second round, and he beat Djokovic by hitting through the court, taking time away on return, and serving above 70% on firsts. He’s been in control from the baseline all week.

Alcaraz has bumped up against a little more resistance; he’s had longer rallies, higher-ranked opponents, and harder, tougher holds, but he still made it through. His net game has been way better than it was in Paris, and he’s found ways to shorten points without having to force it.

They’ve played two Grand Slam finals, and Alcaraz won both. It’s not because he hit bigger, no, it’s because he managed the scoreline changes and created more variation in his shots when the match seemed to be stuck in neutral.

Sinner has a chance if he lands early returns and keeps Alcaraz behind the baseline. But if the exchanges start dragging into repetitive space, Alcaraz will pick it apart one pattern at a time.

Our Final Match Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz def. Jannik Sinner in 4 sets (7-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4)

Alcaraz tracks the ball better on the grass, defends with margin, and makes fewer mistakes when rallies go past five shots. Sinner can definitely take a set if his first serve is clicking, but once patterns change and the match gets into longer exchanges? Alcaraz has the advantage in control.

Our strongest bet? Take the Alcaraz Moneyline!

Online Bingo Tactics: Is There a Smart Way to Play?

I am a Bingo addict. Always have been. The first time I played was when my bubbe took me to her weekly bingo game at the tender age of 9. She had no idea what she’d unleashed inside of me; I was competitive, and it didn’t matter that I was playing against senior citizens. I was there to win. It was there that I got my first chance to stand up and shout, “BINGO!” From then on, I was hooked and went whenever I could.

If you think Bingo is only about winning, you’re dead wrong. Yes, winning is fun, but it’s the anticipation. The adrenaline rush. My blood pressure goes up the instant the first number is called out. Bingo-heads know what I’m talking about.

And now we don’t have to hit up a live game in a church basement, temple, dedicated bingo hall, or a casino. We can play it online. Yes, online bingo is everywhere ,and there are so many reasons this beloved game is so popular. Not only is it super accessible; it’s social, you can win prizes and money, and above all? It’s so much fun!

Sure, it’s mostly a game of change, but there are a few strategies you can employ to up your Bingo skills.

My fellow bingo-lovers, we have some tactics and tips that you might want to know about if you want to play your best online bingo ever. Ready to learn from a pro? Get your dabbers ready and let’s do this.

How Online Bingo Works

You can’t really talk tactics without understanding the basic mechanics of the game. Online bingo looks similar to the “please say B12, please say B12” number-chasing lunacy that we love, but online? It runs on a completely different engine than your average bingo hall.

Bingo Formats: It’s Not Just 75-Ball Anymore

Okay, no two bingo games are the same anymore.  There are a few main formats that you’ll see online, but each one plays a little differently.

• 75-ball bingo: This is the classic American format and probably what you played in your school fundraiser or your aunt’s backyard. It uses a 5×5 grid with numbers 1 through 75, and you’re aiming to complete specific patterns: rows, Xs, corners, or whatever shape the host came up with. It’s fast-paced, pattern-focused, and a personal favorite of Bingo-ers.
• 90-ball bingo: This is the standard format in the UK. The card layout is different; there are three rows, nine columns, and 15 numbers total. Here, you can win in three ways: one line, two lines, or a full house. It’s a little more chill than 75-ball, and the three-tiered win system adds some intensity as the game progresses.
• 80-ball bingo: A nice in-between. Played on a 4×4 grid, it’s less common but shows up on some bingo-focused apps. It’s a little more structured and faster than 90-ball, but not quite as hectic as the speed formats.
• Speed bingo / 30-ball bingo: Want to watch your hopes and dreams rise and fall in under a minute? This one’s for you. Only 30 balls, a 3×3 grid, and blink-and-you-miss-it gameplay. You have to be and stay ready, because these games move faster than your pop-pop’s Buick going to bingo night.

There are also  platforms that have mashups and seasonal formats, like Valentine’s Day heart-shaped win patterns or summer beach ball rounds, but most games will fall under one of the big four formats above.

How Numbers Are Drawn: RNGs

In a traditional bingo hall, some poor soul is in front of players, spins a giant cage, and hopes that they don’t call out the wrong number and face the wrath of the crowd. Online, there’s no real caller.

Every number you see pop up online is pulled using a Random Number Generator (RNG). This is a certified algorithm that mimics pure randomness; it’s tested, audited, and built to make sure no one (including the platform) can predict or influence what number is drawn. That means no shady backroom deals, no rigged sequences, and no “I swear they never call N32” complaints.

This also means that online bingo never slows down. No pausing for a coughing caller, no fumbling for the next ball. Just nonstop numbers, so make sure you hit the bathroom before the game starts!

Auto-Daubing: The Lazy Player’s Buddy 

One of the most divisive features in online bingo is auto-daubing. Love it or hate it, it’s not going anywhere.

Here’s how it works: instead of manually clicking or tapping every number that gets called, the platform does it for you. The second I22 drops, your card lights up automatically. If that sounds like cheating to you… I hear you. Part of the charm of old-school bingo is frantically scanning six cards at once while trying not to miss your shot at glory. But auto-daubing frees you up to concentrate on the game chat, hydrate, or run ten cards at once like some sort of a bingo goblin.

Most platforms let you toggle it off if you miss the tactile thrill of marking it yourself. But be warned: turn it off, and you might miss a win because you were too busy being social in the chat.

In addition to the auto-daub, there are some other modernized features that you’ll find on today’s bingo sites, including:

• Card sorting: Automatically reorders your cards so the ones that are closest to winning float to the top
• Highlighting hot numbers: Some gambling sites track what’s been called recently and show you “hot” vs. “cold” draws (yes, this is superstition, but it’s still fun)
• Buy-in boosts or ticket bundles: You can play more games or get discounted entries
• Chatroom bonuses: Random games or emoji contests in the chat that add side prizes

In other words, it’s still bingo, but it’s on speed.

Traditional vs. Online Bingo: What’s the Difference?

Online bingo is an entirely different bingo beast. The vibe is still chaotic and fun. But the logistics have changed a lot.

The Role of Luck vs. Strategy

Let’s talk about the huge bingo elephant in the room: Is it just luck?

Yes…mostly. Bingo is what the pros call a game of pure chance. You don’t get to roll the dice, make choices mid-game, or bluff your way to a win. Numbers are drawn at random. Cards are pre-filled.

But, and this is a bingo-sized but, there are still choices that can sway things ever-so-slightly in your favor. So while you can’t control what balls get pulled, you can make smarter decisions before the game starts!

Can You Influence the Outcome? Technically? No. But Also, Kind of?

Once those numbers start flying, you’re at the mercy of the RNG gods. The outcome of any individual game is totally outside your control. You can’t “strategize” your way to a guaranteed bingo the way you might be able to in blackjack or poker. But bingo isn’t entirely a hands-off experience.

The long-term odds, especially online, can be nudged a little bit depending on how you choose to play. The following are the four things that can get you closer to a bingo!

Smart Tactics for Online Bingo Players

We’ve already touched on how bingo is a game of chance, but that doesn’t mean you should play with your eyes closed! A few smart decisions before and during the game can give you a little more control, or at the very least, help you get more value (and fun) out of your sessions.

Below is your rapid-fire guide to playing bingo like someone who knows what they’re doing!

Check how many tickets have already been bought before you play. If the counter’s in the hundreds? Sit that one out.

2. Play When the Bingo World Is Asleep

Building on the tip above, timing matters. Late nights, early mornings, weekday afternoons? These are gold for players who’d rather compete against 30 people than 300.

Off-peak sessions also tend to be smoother. The chat is slower, the rooms are less chaotic, and you can focus without someone spamming the emojis like they’re trying to summon the bingo gods. You won’t always win, but you’ll probably have more fun. 

3. Buy More Cards (But Know Your Limit)

More cards mean more chances to win. But unless your budget is infinite (and if so, can we be bingo buddies?), It’s about balance.

Buying five or 10 cards per game is usually manageable and affordable. Go past that, and it’s only worth it if:

• You’re using auto-daub
• You can afford the loss
• You’re not burning out your session bankroll in five minutes flat

Your card count is volume control: enough to boost your odds, but not enough to blow your bankroll.

4. Use Auto-Daub

We’ve already sung the praises of auto-daub, but here’s another reason to turn it on: mental bandwidth.

If you’re juggling 11 cards and still trying to participate in the chat, track your progress, or watch for bonus rounds, manual daubing will have you missing numbers left and right. Let the system mark for you, and you can enjoy the game and keep an eye on the action.

This is how pros run multiple cards and still hold onto their sanity. You can always toggle it off later if you’re feeling daring or nostalgic.

5. Hunt for Promos & Bonuses Like a Bargain Bin Queen

Free tickets? Deposit boosts? Loyalty rewards? Yes, yes, and yes.

If you’re not checking the promotions tab before playing, you’re leaving money on the table. Most bingo platforms throw out regular promos to keep players engaged, especially if you’re part of their loyalty or VIP programs. Weekly freebie tickets, cashback on losses, exclusive jackpot entries; all of these can stretch your play.

Just don’t fall for bait-and-switch nonsense. If a promo looks shady or overly complicated, skip it. 

6. Join a Reputable Bingo Community

This one flies under the radar, but it shouldn’t. Every online bingo platform has its own community! It could be the in-game chat room, a Discord group, a subreddit, or a dedicated bingo forum.

The point is this: bingo people talk. They drop hints about which rooms have been paying out, which sites are running decent promos, or when jackpot games are scheduled. You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room, but listening in can give you an edge. Also: friendships, funny memes, and a shared hatred for that one person who keeps winning.

Four Psychological Tactics: Don’t Fall Into Common Traps

Online bingo is supposed to be fun, but when you combine adrenaline, lights, and almost-bingo, it’s not hard to lose track. If you’re not careful, what started out as a chill game session can morph into “one more round” spirals and emotional bankroll burns.

We need to talk about the brain traps bingo players fall into, and how to steer clear of them before you end up rage-buying 40 tickets in a room called “High Rollin’ Bingo Mamas.”

Are Some Bingo Cards Better Than Others?

You’ve got 10 cards to pick from, but do any give you a real advantage? That all depends on who you ask.

• Tippett’s Theory says longer games favor numbers closer to the middle (38 in 75-ball), while shorter games favor high or low extremes.
• Granville’s Theory argues for balance; equal odd/even, high/low, and number-ending diversity across the card.

Both sound smart, but in RNG bingo? They don’t change your odds. They’re fine to try if you enjoy the ritual, but don’t bet your bankroll on them.

The bottom line is this: there is no such thing as a “lucky” card in a system that’s driven by math. It doesn’t matter if your grid forms a perfect pattern or looks like a numerical mess; it’s all still random and always will be.

Social Features and Chat Room Advantages

And don’t ever underestimate the community angle. Experienced players will call out platform bugs, share promo codes, and help newcomers stay away from obvious traps. Lurking is learning, bingo fam.

Playing for Fun vs. Playing to Win

Bingo is not a reliable money-making tool. The best and only way to play it is to treat it as what it is: entertainment and fun.

If you’re here for a profit, you’ll burn out. But if you’re here to hang out, chase a few prizes, and ride the highs and lows without tilting? That’s what bingo is all about!

Set clear goals: play for fun, maybe catch a win here and there, and stop playing when it isn’t fun anymore. Make sure you’re always gambling responsibly!

Conclusion: Online Bingo Balancing Act

Bingo isn’t a strategy game; it never was and never will be. You’re not here to mastermind your way through a spreadsheet of odds! No, you’re here because you like the excitement, the rush, and the chance that your card might finally line up before SassyNana73 wins again for the third time in 20 minutes.

But you aren’t powerless! The smarter you are with how and when you play, the longer you last, the more chances you get, and the less likely you are to rage-quit and vow to never play again.

Here’s a quick recap for playing smart and keeping it fun:

• Smaller rooms = better odds. Don’t fight with 300 people for the same $10 prize.
• Buy tickets like a grown-up. Your rent is not a part of your bankroll.
• Snag bonuses. Free games are bingo coupons, so use them.
• Pay attention to the chat. Tips, surprise giveaways, and really knowledgeable regulars hang out there.

LAFC vs FC Dallas Prediction & Top Bets (July 12, 2025)

FC Dallas will be looking to grab a win and turn around a losing streak in its last three matches. However, the odds are stacked against the team as it will be heading to the heart of L.A. to face the Los Angeles FC.

The home side, LAFC, is 6th on the table going into this game and is the clear favorite to win the clash. FC Dallas, on the other hand, will be under considerable pressure going into this game, as it has never won on the road against LAFC. Its poor run leading up to the game is also not encouraging either.

But could FC Dallas pick up on any weaknesses to exploit in the coming match day? Read on as we explore both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, make our predictions, and recommend our top bets.

Match Overview

• Matchup: LAFC vs. FC Dallas
• Date & Time: Saturday, July 12, 2025
• Kick-off Time: 7:30 PM PT / 10:30 PM ET
• Venue: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
• How To Watch: Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass (U.S.)

Recent Form: Key Strengths and Weaknesses

LAFC

The high number of goals from LAFC also shows a robust offense, one that’ll likely take a toll on FC Dallas as the team tries to contain it.

FC Dallas

Key Players to Disrupt the Match

Denis Bouanga remains the top threat from LAFC. The winger/forward has scored 9 league goals going into this game and is the highest MLS scorer for LAFC.

Other notable players likely to keep FC Dallas on their toes are midfielders Delgado, Yeboah, and Igor Jesus. All three will be going up against a less powerful midfield from FC Dallas.

As for FC Dallas, Petar Musa remains their top threat going into the game. The forward has 4 goals in the MLS this season and 7 goals across all competitions. 

Tactical Matchup

LAFC will likely control the possession in this game. And you can expect early pressure from LAFC, as it will likely push to open the scoring for the match.

Given FC Dallas’s weak backline, LAFC’s high press and quick transitions might find the net much quicker than anticipated.

As a push to make up for its weak backline, FC Dallas will likely be more counter-focused. But whether it will find the net against LAFC is still unlikely.

Betting Odds & Lines

FC Dallas has never won at LAFC, and the current trends from its recent performances show no signs of an upset. Betting odds to look out for, courtesy of BetRivers, are as follows:

Our Best Bets

From our detailed analysis of both teams’ form and history, these are our best bets:

Our Final Take and Score Prediction

Final Score Prediction: LAFC 2 – FC Dallas 1

LAFC has shown dominance at home this season. On the other hand, FC Dallas has racked up a poor record when it comes to away games. While it has conceded 37 goals, LAFC has scored 33 goals in the season.

The moneyline bet is our best, as it places LAFC in the winning position. It is also the most likely, given LAFC’s dominance and impressive record going into the game. As for the total goals, a bet of under 3.5 goals is the most value-based bet. We expect FC Dallas to sit deep in its defense in the game.

Dennis Bouanga will likely make a strong impact in the game, given his strong goal record both home and away. With that said, our final predictions are that LAFC will control possession in the game and keep a clean sheet. On the offense, Bouanga will likely score and create an assist as well.

FC Cincinnati vs Columbus Crew Prediction & Betting Picks (July 12, 2025)

If the MLS has a version of a knife fight? The Ohio Derby is it. And that’s just the official name. The unofficial name? That would be the “Hell is Real Derby,” and it occurs twice a year.

How did it get this moniker? In 2004, Kentucky developer Jimmy Harston put up a giant black and white billboard on I-71 about halfway between Cincinnati and Columbus, and it read “Hell is Real.” That’s the origin story, and it stuck.

It’s MLS’s most bitter state-line matchup, and on July 12, FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew meet on the pitch to battle it out.

Cincinnati hasn’t lost a home match in over a month, and Columbus just ripped Charlotte apart and hasn’t lost in six. Both clubs are in the playoff race, so this will be a high-intensity, high-pressure, and super hostile 90 minutes.

If you want to bet on this one (you should, this one is always fun), we have found three solid wagers and a couple of props!

Keep scrolling to see all of the stats, betting odds, expert bet analysis, and our top picks that have the most value for the “Hell is Real” Derby.

Match Details & What’s On the Line

• Date & Time: Saturday, July 12, 7:30 pm ET
• Venue: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
• Current Standings: FC Cincinnati: 2nd in Eastern Conference (41 pts, 13W-5D-6L); Columbus Crew: 4th in Eastern Conference (38 pts, 11W-5D-7L)
• Recent Form (Last 5 MLS Matches): FC Cincinnati: W-W-D-L-W; Columbus Crew: W-L-W-W-D
• What’s at Stake: A win puts Cincinnati five points clear of Columbus with the season series locked up. Columbus still has games to play, but losing here would put a ton of pressure on their next two fixtures. Both clubs are in the top four, but with Orlando and Miami closing in, neither one can afford to give up any ground if they want to secure a home playoff spot.

Latest Betting Odds & Market Movement

You’re gonna want to get in on this action! Here are the latest betting odds and lines posted on DraftKings:

Notable Props

• Diego Rossi (Crew) Anytime Goalscorer: Between +160 to +180

Line Movement

As of publication, there hasn’t been any noticeable line movement, but that can and probably will change as the game gets closer! 

Stats & Trends to Know

Below is what the recent numbers and matchup history tell us going into Saturday’s “Hell is Real” derby.

Expert Betting Analysis & Insights

From a betting perspective, what will matter most for this game? Look below for tactics, matchups, and external factors that can move markets. 

Tactical Breakdown

• Cincinnati has relied on home control all season long; they’ve been pressing high, recovering possession quickly, and letting Da Silva Ferreira dictate tempo in the final third. He leads MLS in key passes and continues to create most of their scoring chances.
• Columbus is at its most dangerous when it wins the ball in midfield and counters through Rossi and Russel-Rowe. They’ve combined for 17 goal contributions, and their movement has pulled apart way more organized back lines than Cincinnati’s.
• Both teams average over 1.5 goals per match, but defensive lapses have cost them; Cincinnati has been caught on second balls inside the box, and Columbus has given up chances after failed clearances and late fouls near the goal.

Situational Factors

• Weather forecast: Forecasts call for high humidity and possible storms around kickoff time. If rain does hit, you can expect slower ball movement and a heavier pitch; conditions that usually limit wide buildup and favor set pieces or direct play through the middle.
• Lineups: Cincinnati should be at full strength, though a rotation risk is possible with a midweek fixture ahead. Columbus might need to adjust in midfield if Nagbe isn’t available; his absence has changed their core shape in past games.

Our Best Bets

What are the angles that we think offer the most value? We have three best bets and a bonus prop for you!

Final Whistle – Our Last Word & Prediction

Final Score Prediction: FC Cincinnati 2-1 Columbus Crew

Cincinnati doesn’t need to have long stretches of possession! All they have to do is keep Columbus from controlling the middle. And if Nagbe is out? That job gets a whole lot easier. Even if he does play, Cincinnati has the advantage at TQL; they’ve produced more high-percentage shots and forced better saves in similar matchups, and their midfield does more work without the ball.

Columbus can break through, but they’ll need to finish from limited windows. Cincinnati’s attack is more direct, and their back line recovers faster when things break down.

Best Bets Recap

• Over 2.5 Goals (-140): ★★★★☆
• Both Teams to Score – Yes (-160): ★★★★☆
• FC Cincinnati ML (+120): ★★★☆☆
• Rossi Hernández Anytime Goalscorer (+185): ★★★☆☆

If the odds change closer to game time and you want to determine the implied probability the bookmakers are showing for each team, check out our betting odds calculator for quick help.