Orlando City vs. Columbus Crew (Saturday, 10.30pm)
© Reuters
Orlando City can advance into the Eastern Conference Finals of Major League Soccer for the first time when they host the Columbus Crew on Saturday at Exploria Stadium.
In the opening round of the playoffs, the Lions claimed a pair of 1-0 victories over Nashville SC to advance to this stage, while the Crew defeated Atlanta United 4-2 in their previous encounter, winning that three-game series 2-1.
We say: Orlando City 2-2 Columbus Crew (Orlando City advance on penalties)
Orlando may not have the potency that some attacking players in Columbus possess, but as a group, they are more than capable of scoring goals, which can be equally valuable.
The X-factor in this one could come down to the goalkeepers, and in a shootout, we have more faith in Gallese, who has been an intimidating presence to face from the penalty spot.
How to watch
You can watch Orlando City vs. Columbus Crew and every MLS match this season live on Apple TV. Click here for more details on how to subscribe.> Click here to read our full preview for this match
Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia (Sunday, 1.00am)
© Reuters
For a second successive campaign, FC Cincinnati and the Philadelphia Union will meet in the Eastern Conference semi-finals of Major League Soccer, this time at TQL Stadium on Saturday.
Both teams swept their opening round playoff series, with the Orange and Blue knocking out the New York Red Bulls on penalties in game two, while Philly won a scrappy second game against the New England Revolution, 1-0.
We say: FC Cincinnati 2-0 Philadelphia Union
Both teams will be without some key pieces to their lineup, but the overall depth of Cincy and the individual genius of Acosta has us leaning towards the Supporters' Shield winners getting the job done.
How to watch
You can watch FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union and every MLS match this season live on Apple TV. Click here for more details on how to subscribe.> Click here to read our full preview for this match
Barney Corkhill
