Sporting KC vs St. Louis
MLS Cup
Round 1
Sunday
5th November 2023
Sporting Park
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the MLS Cup – Round 1 fixture between Sporting KC and St. Louis.
Sporting KC vs St. Louis: Preview
Sporting KC form analysis
Kansas City’s recent run of games has showcased an entertaining attack capable of scoring goals but also some concerning defensive issues. Things started poorly with a 1-4 away thrashing by newcomers St. Louis City, torn apart on the break after offering little. However, their attack clicked next game in an excellent come from behind 2-3 away win at Real Salt Lake – overturning an early deficit thanks to goals from Thommy, Russell and Pulido. Building momentum, SKC then impressed again offensively in a comfortable 3-1 home win over Minnesota United courtesy of a Russell double and Walter strike.
Their defensive problems then resurfaced as they were held to a goalless home draw by San Jose, dominating but unable to create clear chances. Most recently, familiar issues struck in another away thrashing by St Louis, going behind early before capitulating 4-1 despite Walter’s temporary reply. Overall, SKC has shown they carry real threat in attack through Russell, Pulido and Co. but their defensive inconsistencies have often undermined their attacking promise.
St. Louis form analysis
St. Louis City’s inaugural MLS season has shown plenty of promise but also predictable inconsistency. They started brightly with a come from behind 2-1 away win at Minnesota – equalizing through Klauss before grabbing a late winner. Building on this, St. Louis then hammered Sporting KC 4-1 at home. S-+coring 4 second half goals to tear apart their opponents on the break. However, a reality check came next game in a humbling 0-3 away loss to Vancouver, outplayed from start to finish.
They responded well with an organized display in a narrow 0-2 home loss to Seattle. They were limited to few chances but remained resolute. But defensive issues resurfaced in their latest match. Conceding four in a 1-4 home loss to SKC, unable to cope with the visitor’s slick counters. Overall, St Louis has impressed with their attacking verve and energy but struggled defensively, keeping just 1 clean sheet.
