In a much-anticipated Major League Soccer (MLS) clash, Canadian rivals CF Montreal and Vancouver Whitecaps are set to face off this Saturday at Saputo Stadium.
As both teams vie for critical points, fans are eager to see which team will emerge victorious. This article delves into the form, team news, possible lineups, and provides a prediction for this exciting encounter.
Team Form and Performance
CF Montreal
CF Montreal has experienced an inconsistent 2024 season, marked by fluctuating performances.
They currently sit 12th in the Eastern Conference, just two points below the playoff line. Montreal's defence has been a notable weakness, with the team conceding the second-most goals in the league (45). However, they have been solid at home, maintaining a five-match unbeaten run at Saputo Stadium.
Despite these defensive issues, Montreal has shown resilience in home games, evidenced by their five consecutive home victories against the Whitecaps across all competitions.
In their last outing, Montreal suffered a 2-0 defeat against New York City FC, underscoring their vulnerability when away from home.
Vancouver Whitecaps
Vancouver Whitecaps have recently found their stride, particularly in their offensive play.
They secured a 3-1 victory over Minnesota United following a 2-0 defeat to the Portland Timbers. This resurgence has propelled them to fourth place in the Western Conference with 31 points.
The Whitecaps have demonstrated their offensive prowess, scoring seven goals in their last two matches.
Their away form has also been impressive, winning five matches on the road this season, a significant improvement from their 2023 performance.
Team News
CF Montreal
Montreal's lineup might see some changes due to injuries and international duties. Mason Toye remains doubtful with a lower-body injury.
Ariel Lassiter could return after Costa Rica's Copa America exit, but Samuel Piette, Joel Waterman, and Mathieu Choiniere are still with the Canadian national team.
Kwadwo Opoku was introduced into the starting lineup in their last match, which could be a tactical shift by Laurent Courtois.
Jules-Anthony Vilsaint might start from the bench again.
Vancouver Whitecaps
The Whitecaps have their injury concerns as well. Tristan Blackmon missed the last game due to a sore groin, and Damir Kreilach and Sam Adekugbe were sidelined with calf injuries.
Ali Ahmed is with the Canadian team at the Copa America, but Andres Cubas should be available after Paraguay's elimination from the tournament.
Ryan Gauld, who was instrumental in their last victory, setting up all three goals, will be key for the Whitecaps.
Sebastian Berhalter, Mathias Laborda, and Brian White, who scored his 40th goal for the Whitecaps, are expected to start.
Possible Lineups
CF Montreal
Starting XI: Sirois; Alvarez, Corbo, Sosa; Ruan, Duke, Lassiter, Edwards; Opoku, Ibrahim, Martinez
Vancouver Whitecaps
Starting XI: Takaoka; Laborda, Veselinovic, Utvik; Raposo, Vite, Cubas, Martins; Johnson, White, Gauld
Head-to-Head
CF Montreal has a favourable home record against Vancouver, winning their last five encounters at Saputo Stadium.
The Whitecaps, however, have dominated the recent fixtures overall, winning four of the previous five matches between the two sides.
Prediction
When Vancouver's top attacking players are in form, they are challenging to stop.
Given Montreal's defensive frailties, the Whitecaps are likely to find ample opportunities to score.
While Montreal's home form is solid, Vancouver's recent offensive surge could tip the balance in their favour.
Our Prediction: CF Montreal 1-2 Vancouver Whitecaps
Whitecaps 
Montréal 
