This year's MLS Cup final takes on something of a familiar feel after both of the favorites this year, NYCFC and Atlanta, were eliminated at the semifinal stage.

The Seattle Sounders vs. Toronto FC takes place next Sunday at a sold out CenturyLink Field, the third time the teams meet at this stage in the last four seasons. The only difference this time is the venue, with the previous two having been held at BMO Field in Toronto.

Home field may not be an advantage in this one. Toronto's players showed in the East final that, despite Atlanta’s fervent support at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, that they wouldn’t crack under the pressure. Toronto got two goals from four shots in Atlanta compared to one goal from 19 shots for the hosts.

For a large part of that game, Toronto was up against the pressure, but in the big moments the team stood tall.

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MLS Cup Final Betting Breakdown

Alejandro Pozuelo has been a thorn in the side of some of MLS’ best defenses, and he’ll remain a real threat for Seattle if Jozy Altidore is still deemed not healthy enough to play.

Captain and leader Michael Bradley will give absolutely everything in the middle of the field in what could be his last game for Toronto, given that his contract is up at the end of the final.

But even his energy and spirit, driving his team forward, might not be enough to keep out the likes of Raul Ruidiaz and Nicolas Lodeiro.

Both were on the scoresheet in a fantastic win over season-long favorites LAFC, but they brought other things to the party that didn’t go unnoticed.

Their movement was of the highest quality and they always provided an out-ball for Jordan Morris or Joevin Jones. The passing lanes, which developed as the pair dominated the home Atlanta defense, went a long way to determining the final score. On the night, no one can say it wasn’t deserved.

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MLS Cup Final Prediction & Best Bet

If the hosts are allowed to get into their stride early, Toronto will be run out. However, if the visitors can disrupt the natural flow of Seattle’s game, we’re in for a treat.

With both sides happier on the front foot rather than the back, we can expect a final full of attacking intensity too.

Goals haven’t been hard to come by, and the destination of the trophy this year will rest on which of the two teams has a more solid defensive foundation.

Our MLS Cup best bet to back is the Seattle Sounders to win and both teams to score, which is at +260 (13/5) with bet365.