San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United – MLS, August 17, 2021

Just four points separate ninth-place San Jose (5-7-7) and fifth-place Minnesota (7-5-6) as the two sides prepare to face off in California this Tuesday, August 17.

The Earthquakes head into Tuesday’s clash on an eight-game unbeaten streak, although six draws during that period have prevented them from infiltrating the top seven.

Adrian Heath’s men were enjoying a five-match unbeaten run of their own, but that was ended by a narrow 1-0 loss to the LA Galaxy on Saturday.

Keep reading to find my San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United prediction and betting pick. But first, let’s take a closer look at the teams and discuss the MLS odds for Tuesday’s matchup.

If you’ve been following MLS this year, you probably won’t be surprised to learn that San Jose drew AGAIN last time out. The Quakes were held to a goalless draw by Vancouver on Saturday, meaning they have now drawn seven of their previous 11 games.

Still, following a dreadful start to the season (seven losses in their opening 11 outings), Matias Almeyda’s men will surely be pleased to be drawing so many matches at the moment.

The Californians must start finding the back of the net more regularly, though.

Javier Lopez (five goals, one assist), Cade Cowell (four goals, four assists), and Cristian Espinoza (two goals, six assists) have played their part. But if they want to break into the playoffs, their teammates will need to start chipping in, too.

Funnily enough, Minnesota has actually scored the same number of goals as San Jose this year. But with a far superior defensive record, the Loons find themselves comfortably inside the top seven.

Impressive victories over Seattle, Portland, and Houston, along with draws against LAFC and Vancouver, saw Heath’s side chalk up a five-match unbeaten streak not so long ago. Although the Galaxy beat them last time out, they remain in a strong position.

Robin Lod arguably holds the key to Minnesota’s success. The Finland international has notched six goals and three assists in his past ten appearances, underlining his importance to the team.

Regardless of the home-field advantage, 10bet views San Jose as the marginal outsider here. That is probably fair, though, as the Quakes have only managed to win three of their nine home matches this season.

It is worth pointing out, however, that Minnesota has picked up just one victory on the road this year. With four draws and three losses coming on their travels, the Loons haven’t enjoyed playing away from home in 2021.

Boasting an eight-game unbeaten streak, I’m confident that San Jose will avoid defeat on Tuesday. That said, they have drawn six times since their last loss.

On paper, Minnesota is definitely the stronger of the two sides. But considering their recent away record, they could struggle to claim all three points in California.

Sorry, San Jose fans, but it feels like another draw is on the cards!