New York Red Bulls vs. Orlando City – MLS, October 18, 2020

Having taken four points from their last two games, the Red Bulls are now just three points shy of their New York rivals and the play-off places in the Eastern Conference. But with Orlando seven points ahead, the Red Bulls’ mini-revival is in jeopardy this weekend.

The Lions visit Red Bull Arena on Sunday, October 18, looking to extend their remarkable 11-game unbeaten run. Oscar Pareja’s men have drawn three of their previous five outings, but at least they have avoided defeat, right?

You can find my New York Red Bulls vs. Orlando City prediction and betting pick below.

10bet clearly favors the Red Bulls (2.10) here, but it is difficult to ignore the Lions’ outstanding unbeaten streak. It is also worth mentioning that Orlando (3.10) claimed a relatively straightforward 3-1 victory in this fixture a fortnight ago.

Granted, the New York club appears to have found a new lease of life since sacking Chris Armas. But there is no denying that Orlando has been by far the better team throughout 2020.

Caden Clark announced himself on the MLS scene is style last weekend, scoring a spectacular volley on debut to hand the Red Bulls all three points against Atlanta United. The 17-year-old had only signed his first professional contract that morning, but by the evening, he was already a star.

However, the youngster clearly didn’t think he’d done enough last weekend. On Wednesday, Clark was at it again, scoring another sensational long-range goal to earn the Red Bulls a draw against conference-leader Toronto FC.

GOLAZO FOR THE KID! @iamcadenclark did it again! pic.twitter.com/gwH26yfM5H

— Red Bull New York (@NewYorkRedBulls) October 15, 2020

Toronto headed into Wednesday’s clash on a seemingly unstoppable five-game winning streak, but the New York Club put an end to that. The players are clearly eager to impress new head coach Gurhard Struber, although Clark has undoubtedly stolen the show.

The Red Bulls are now within touching distance of the top six, but they must maintain their form in order to secure an automatic play-off spot.

On the flip side, Orlando is pretty much guaranteed a play-off place, with the team last tasting defeat all the way back in August. Since then, six wins and five draws have kept the Lions at the top end of the Eastern Conference.

Having only lost two of their 17 regular-season games this year, Pareja’s men are in a very strong position. Not only are they the second-highest scorers in the division, but they also boast one of the best defensive records in the East.

Star man Chris Mueller added to his tally in the 1-1 draw with New York City on Wednesday. The winger now has five goals and five assists in 14 regular-season appearances this season and also netted three goals as Orlando reached the final of the MLS is Back Tournament.

With the Red Bulls playing at home on Sunday, the bookies have bumped up the price for the Orlando victory. And in my opinion, odds of 3.10 for the away win are too good to miss.

Caden Clark has almost singlehandedly kept the Red Bulls afloat lately, but they can’t rely on a 17-year-old to produce magic on a weekly basis. The New York club has undoubtedly improved in recent weeks, but the Lions should be too strong for the Red Bulls.