How MLS Spreads Actually Work
A point spread in MLS soccer assigns a goal handicap to the favorite and an equal advantage to the underdog. If Atlanta United opens at -1.5, they need to win by two or more goals to cover. The underdog at +1.5 covers if they win outright or lose by just one. Because soccer scores are low, a half-goal cushion — the .5
— eliminates the push. MLS spreads frequently sit between -1.5 and +1.5 given how tight the league's talent gap is. Line movement usually signals sharp money or injury news, so watching the open versus the current number tells you something real about market sentiment.