Toronto FC vs. Atlanta United – MLS, October 18, 2020

Toronto’s relentless five-game winning streak was finally ended by New York Red Bulls on Wednesday, although the 1-1 draw still leaves the Canadians three points clear at the top of the Eastern Conference.

Next up, Greg Vanney’s men face Atlanta United on Sunday, October 18. But with the Five Strips sitting a mammoth 19 points behind the conference leader, Toronto is expected to make a quick return to winning ways.

Keep reading to see my Toronto FC vs. Atlanta United prediction and betting pick.

As you can see, the betting sites aren’t giving Atlanta (5.00) much of a chance on Sunday. But when you consider that the Georgia club has only won two of their previous 12 outings, you can’t really argue.

Meanwhile, the Reds’ eight-game unbeaten streak has seen them claim six wins in little over a month. It goes without saying that Toronto (1.60) is the rightful favorite to pick up yet another victory this weekend.

Although the Red Bulls ended Toronto’s winning run on Wednesday, it could be argued that Vanney’s men deserved another victory last time out. They dominated large spells of their previous outing and created countless goalscoring opportunities, yet teenage sensation Caden Clark earned the New York club a point.

Unsurprisingly, Alejandro Pozuelo netted again for Toronto last time out. The Spaniard now has eight goals and four assists in 15 regular-season games this season, firmly solidifying his place among this year’s MVP frontrunners.

The Reds have only suffered two defeats this season and are well on their way to securing the Supporters’ Shield. If Pozuelo and co. can maintain their current form for the remainder of the campaign, getting their hands on the MLS Cup will also be a real possibility.

Toronto FC’s Alejandro Pozuelo is building an airtight case for MLS MVP — Giovinco was no better in 2015 https://t.co/rkc0HK2RV9

— Toronto Star Sports (@StarSports) October 12, 2020

On the other hand, Atlanta’s MLS Cup dreams continue to take hit after hit. Granted, the Five Stripes have won just one of their last four games. But they have also failed to win any of their previous three. Two draws and a defeat in October have not helped the club’s cause.

Looking at the bigger picture, Atlanta has only managed three victories in 13 outings since the MLS is Back Tournament. Stephen Glass was appointed as interim head coach following the team’s dismal showing in Florida, but he has failed to steer the club in the right direction.

It is no secret that scoring goals has been the Five Stripes’ biggest issue this year. Only three sides in the Eastern Conference have netted fewer goals than Atlanta, and two of those teams occupy the bottom two places in the standings.

Glass’ men are hanging onto a play-off qualification spot by the skin of their teeth, but they could find themselves as low as second-bottom if results don’t go their way this weekend.

You probably won’t find a lower price in MLS this weekend, but there is a good reason for that. Toronto has been the best team in the Eastern Conference this term, while Atlanta has been among the worst.

Given the contrasting form of the two sides, the odds for the home win should arguably be lower here. For that reason, I recommending jumping on this bet before the bookies change their mind!