Can you bet on the MLS Cup Final? LA Galaxy vs NY Red Bulls

Major League Soccer’s 2024 MLS Cup Final is set to be a thrilling showdown between the LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls. Fans are gearing up to watch this historic matchup at Dignity Health Sports Park on December 7, but many are also wondering: Can you legally bet on the MLS Cup? 

Let’s explore the ins and outs of betting on this marquee event, from legal betting options to responsible gaming practices.

Who can legally bet on the MLS Cup championship match?

Legal sports betting has surged across the United States since the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. Today, 38 states and Washington, D.C. offer some form of legalized sports betting. To place wagers, you must meet two key criteria: Location and Age.

• Which states have legal Sports Betting?

  • Arizona

  • Arkansas

  • Colorado

  • Connecticut

  • Delaware

  • Florida

  • Illinois

  • Indiana

  • Iowa

  • Kansas

  • Kentucky

  • Louisiana

  • Maine

  • Maryland

  • Massachusetts

  • Michigan

  • Missouri (PENDING)

  • New Hampshire

  • New York

  • New Jersey

  • Nevada

  • North Carolina

  • Ohio

  • Oregon

  • Pennsylvania

  • Rhode Island

  • Tennessee

  • Vermont

  • Virginia

  • Washington D.C.

  • West Virginia

  • Wyoming
    
    
    

• Age Requirements: The minimum age for legal betting varies by state but is typically 21 years old. Some states, such as Kentucky, New Hampshire, Montana, Rhode Island, Washington D.C. and Wyoming, allow betting at age 18.

California Sports Betting

Despite being home to major professional sports teams and massive fan bases like Galaxy supporters, California has yet to legalize sports betting. While voters have rejected measures to regulate wagering in recent elections, offshore sportsbooks often target Californians. However, these platforms operate illegally and lack consumer protections.

LA Galaxy fans in California looking to bet on the MLS Cup should avoid unregulated sites and focus on enjoying the match responsibly. Neighboring states like Nevada and Arizona offer legal betting options for those willing to travel.

California bettors beware: Avoid bookies, offshores and sweepstakes

The allure of offshore sportsbooks, modern-day bookies or sweepstakes-based betting betting can be tempting, but these options carry significant risks:

• No Regulation: Offshore sportsbooks are not subject to U.S. laws, leaving bettors with no recourse in case of disputes, delayed payouts or fraud.

• Lack of Consumer Protections: Licensed U.S. sportsbooks ensure fair play, transparency and robust security measures. Offshore platforms cannot offer the same assurances.

• No Local Contributions: Legal sportsbooks contribute to state programs through taxes, while offshore sites provide no benefit to local economies.

For a safe betting experience, stick to regulated platforms in states where sports betting is legal.

Who is favored to win the MLS Cup? LA Galaxy or NY Red Bulls

The LA Galaxy enter the final as favorites, with a 3-way moneyline price of -125 for a Galaxy win. Meanwhile, the New York Red Bulls, a surprise finalist after their improbable run as a #7 seed, are listed at +285 on the three-way moneyline. A draw is priced at +270, and the total goals line is set at 2.5 (over: -155, under: +115).

The Galaxy’s return to the final after a decade signals their resurgence as a powerhouse, led by Dejan Joveljic’s late-game heroics against the Seattle Sounders. However, the Red Bulls’ defensive strength, highlighted by goalkeeper Carlos Coronel’s three consecutive clean sheets, makes this an intriguing matchup.

MLS Betting: Responsible Gaming tips and best practices

While the excitement of the MLS Cup can heighten the urge to bet, it’s essential to gamble responsibly. Follow these tips to maintain a healthy relationship with sports betting:

1. Set a Budget: Treat your bets as entertainment expenses, not investments. Establish daily, weekly and monthly limits to avoid overextending.

2. Never Chase Losses: Resist the urge to win back what was lost with additional wagers. This behavior often leads to a cycle of greater losses.

3. Use Tools for Control: Many sportsbooks offer features like time limits, deposit caps and self-exclusion programs to help you stay within your limits.

4. Understand the Odds: Familiarize yourself with MLS-specific betting markets, such as money lines, spreads and total goals.

5. Track Your Betting History: Monitor your wins and losses to identify patterns and keep a close eye on how much exactly has been won or (more likely) lost.

6. Bet Only What You Can Afford to Lose: Never gamble with money you need for essentials like rent, bills or food.

Gambling Addiction support and resources for MLS fans

For some MLS fans, sports betting can evolve from a fun activity into a harmful addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, specialized resources are available:

• Schedule an Appointment with a Licensed Counselor

• Speak with the Care Team 

• Refer a Friend or Loved One

• Take a Free, Quick Self-Assessment Test

Sports betting is meant to add excitement to events like the MLS Cup, but it’s essential to stay in control. If you need support, Birches Health is here to help.