REF’s picks

Backing over 2.5 goals at Mercedes-Benz Stadium makes sense given Atlanta's desperate need to snap a winless skid and New York's leaky defence. Both teams boast creative outlets like Miranchuk and Forsberg who can unlock defences, though their fragile backlines make a clean sheet unlikely for either side.

1. 1Atlanta's recent home matches have featured plenty of attacking intent alongside defensive lapses.
2. 2New York's away form highlights recurring defensive vulnerabilities that opponents exploit.
3. 3An early breakthrough could leave both teams exposed on the counter, threatening a high-scoring affair.

REF's own opinion, not a guarantee — nothing here is financial or betting advice, and the call is always yours.