Favorites To Advance in CONCACAF Champions League
Region Looking for New Champion
It’s not a secret that CONCACAF always tilts the balance toward teams from the Liga MX and the MLS. A Mexican team has won the title for the last 16 years. During that span, only teams from those two leagues have played the Grand Finale.
But that’s the beauty of sports, that a major upset is always around the corner. Especially after some results in the first leg of the Round of 16.
One thing is certain, there’s going to be a new champion because Monterrey is out of the race.
As well explore a variety of other Soccer odds here to win!
CONCACAF Champions League Breakdown
New York City FC vs Santos de Guapiles
The MLS champions had no trouble fulfilling their role as betting online favorites and won 2-0 in San Jose. Valentin Castellanos, one of the favorites to win the Golden Boot, started the tournament on the right foot. He scored both goals in the first half.
Now, the Citizens could lose by one goal and advance to the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals. Nevertheless, I don’t think that’s going to be the case. NYCFC shouldn’t suffer in the second leg either, even with Santiago Rodriguez not being available due to suspension.
Santos de Guapiles aims for Javon East and Luis Paradela to play. Both missed the first leg due to work permit problems. If they play, Santos will put up a better fight, but not enough to pull off the upset.
Bet on CONCACAF Champions League
CF Montreal vs Santos Laguna
One of the evenest series in the Round of 16. Santos Laguna won the first leg 1-0 thanks to Albert Ocejo, who scored at 88 minutes. The Mexican team controlled the game, winning possession and making more shots on target. However, Montreal’s defense did a great job holding the fort.
A draw in the second leg would be enough for the Mexican team to advance. However, Montreal has been considerably better when playing at home, losing only one of its last seven games. Plus, Romell Quioto and Djordje Mihailovic are an explosive attacking duo.
Expect another close, intense match. I wouldn’t rule out a surprise.
Leon vs Guastatoya
Guastatoya made history by eliminating Liga Deportiva Alajuelense and qualifying for the Round of 16. What a nice story, right? Well, it was, because the Guatemalan team has few, if not null, chances to advance.
Leon went to Guatemala and won the first leg 2-0 without too much trouble. Omar Fernandez and Elias Hernandez were the scorers. The visitors could have scored more goals, but they slowed down in the second half.
Forget about a soccer betting upset here. Leon will advance.
Cruz Azul vs Forge FC
Cruz Azul suffered a little more than expected but still managed to win the first leg 1-0. Romulo Otero took advantage of the opportunity and proved his worth with a great goal in the first half. I say opportunity because head coach Juan Reynoso rested several starters.
Forge FC is no match for Cruz Azul, who recently won its first Liga MX title in 23 years. Expect more goals in the second leg, especially from the home side.
Pumas UNAM vs Saprissa
Saprissa was the last non-Mexican team to win the title. Curiously enough, los Morados did it by defeating Pumas UNAM in the 2005 Final.
The first leg didn’t disappoint as it was a back-and-forth battle that ended 2-2. Saprissa came from behind twice thanks to Christian Bolanos, who scored both goals. It seems like the veteran striker really likes to play against Pumas as he also scored in the 2005 Final.
A victory would be enough for either of them to advance. However, if the second leg finishes 0-0 or 1-1, Pumas will advance. If it ends 3-3, Saprissa will advance. If you were looking for an underdog to include in your soccer picks, los Ticos could be the answer. They can be lethal on the counterattack.
Colorado Rapids vs Comunicaciones
Comunicaciones did it. The Guatemalan team pulled off the online gambling upset in the first leg with a 1-0 victory. Karel Espino opened the can with only one minute left on the clock. Nevertheless, the home side dominated the whole game. Colorado didn’t even make a shot on target.
In the second leg, expect the Rapids to take the reins right from the start. After completing one of their best MLS seasons, not advancing would be an epic failure. Especially playing at home, where they only lost one of their last 10 games.
Comunicaciones will heavily rely on the counterattack. Good thing they’re used to playing 4-5-1. It’s going to be a close one, but I think Colorado will turn things around.
Seattle Sounders vs Motagua
Considering Seattle has been one of the best MLS teams in recent years, Motagua did well in the first leg. The game ended 0-0, but Motagua had the best chances. In the second leg, any draw with goals would be enough for the Honduran team to advance.
The thing is that the Sounders are going to go all-in right from the start. Raul Ruidiaz has regained more confidence after returning from injury. Plus, Leo Chu will be ready. He couldn’t play the first leg due to some muscle discomfort. Go with Seattle.
If you are a CONCACAF fan, you could also check these two articles:
New England Revolution vs AS Cavaly
Believe it or not, AS Cavaly was unable to obtain the necessary visas required to travel to the United States. Therefore, the team withdrew from the competition, allowing New England to advance without a sweat.
