LAFC vs. Club America: 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Play-In Preview & Picks

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LAFC from MLS and Club America from Liga MX are set to clash on Saturday for the final slot in the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a tournament scheduled to begin in just two weeks. This competition offers significant financial incentives, with a total prize pool reaching $1 billion, and each participating club guaranteed a minimum of $9.55 million, with potential for more based on performance. The winner of this pivotal match between LAFC and Club America will claim the last remaining position in Group D, replacing Club Leon, who were withdrawn due to regulations regarding multi-club ownership. If the game remains tied after both regulation time and extra time, the decisive winner will be determined through penalty kicks.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 10:30 p.m. ET at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Betting odds for the game show LAFC listed at +170 and Club America at +155 on the 90-minute money line. A draw at the end of regulation is priced at +230. The total goals over/under is set at 2.5. For qualification to the next stage (the two-way line to advance), Club America holds slightly favored odds at -115 compared to LAFC at -110. For those considering placing bets, reviewing expert analysis is highly recommended before finalizing any picks for the LAFC vs. Club America encounter.

Based on insights from a leading soccer expert, here are the recommended betting selections for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Play-In match on Saturday:

Both Teams to Score (BTTS) (-130)

These two clubs recently faced each other in a friendly match back in February, which saw both teams score in LAFC`s 2-1 victory. With a place in the Club World Cup and substantial prize money on the line, the stakes for this official playoff game are vastly different. Anticipate both sides to adopt aggressive strategies and field their strongest lineups for the entire duration. An early goal by either team could force the opponent into a more offensive stance, potentially leading to opportunities for both sides. Given their history, the expert expects both teams to find the back of the net again in this crucial Saturday match.

Total Goals: Over 2.5 (-110)

As the match will proceed to penalty kicks only if tied after overtime, neither team is expected to play conservatively with the aim of reaching a shootout. LAFC`s recent games have consistently featured plenty of goals; eight of their last nine matches have exceeded the 2.5 goal mark. Club America also demonstrates strong scoring capability, having scored 11 goals in their last six matches that were not part of an aggregate series. Experts suggest LAFC`s tendency to push forward with a high defensive line contributes to open games with high scoring potential, making the Over 2.5 goals a strong prediction for this matchup.

LAFC Team Total: Over 1.5 Goals (+135)

LAFC`s attack has been particularly potent, scoring at least two goals in each of their last eight consecutive games. This offensive power is a key reason behind their current eight-match unbeaten streak. Forward Denis Bouanga has been instrumental, scoring seven goals in his last eight appearances. Given LAFC`s consistent ability to score multiple goals, taking them to score over 1.5 goals at plus-money odds is considered a favorable bet by the expert, even when facing a defensively sound team like Club America. The expectation is for LAFC to maintain their offensive momentum on Saturday night.

For further in-depth analysis and betting predictions across various soccer leagues globally, consider consulting additional expert resources.

Heath Buttersworth
Heath Buttersworth

Heath Buttersworth is a seasoned sports journalist based in Bristol, England. Since 2012, he has been covering various sports, particularly focusing on Formula 1 and UFC events.

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