Houston's recent possession has produced few shots while leaving opponents useful access to the box. St. Louis have continued creating chances through several suppliers despite their defeats. In the other match, Omiya's identifiable wide service meets a Tochigi defence that has struggled to turn possession into protection.
Wallem, Durkin and Polvara supplied seven key passes between them against San Diego. Their service gives Navarro, Becher and Jeong routes against Houston beyond a single central creator. Holse played the last match but is now officially out; Herrera and Guilherme missed Houston's last game and are possible returnees rather than definite absences. I expect measured early play followed by more room as Houston pursue a decisive result. That's why I'm siding with St. Louis City, with a level finish covered.
Omiya's recent goals have clear origins: Sekiguchi supplied both against Iwaki, while Carlinhos found Izumi against Sendai. Tochigi allowed ten shots on target against Iwaki despite playing with a full side and taking an early lead. Hiraoka's suspension is confirmed, and Yoshida already provides an active replacement forward; Byron's availability remains unconfirmed. Omiya also have a practiced late defensive change after establishing a lead. That's why I'm backing Omiya Ardija to win.
