After being back at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the first time in nearly six weeks on Wednesday, the 5-Stripes have another tough test coming to town this weekend when rivals Charlotte FC visit the peach state. Atlanta is coming off a 2-2 draw against Chicago on Wednesday and will look to get back in the win column. Charlotte earned a solid 2-1 win against D.C. United as it hovers right around the playoff line as we enter Matchday 26 this season. Saturday’s match is of importance for both teams in terms of the standings, and the rivalry aspect should only add to the atmosphere and occasion on Saturday night. Let’s take a look at the Tools to the Match presented by Home Depot against Charlotte FC.
Push forward to turn draws to wins
A goal in stoppage time always brings with it a certain dynamic. Homegrown midfielder Will Reilly scored in the 94th minute against Chicago to earn a 2-2 draw. Unfortunately, Atlanta has reached the point in the season where it needs to start turning those draws into victories. Saturday night will be the next chance to do that. Alexey Miranchuk scored his third goal of the season, while Miguel Almirón got the primary assist. Atlanta needs that production to continue from its attack to keep the three points at home. Charlotte has proven to be a difficult opponent for Atlanta at Mercedes-Benz Stadium the last couple of times. Atlanta needs to come out early and put pressure on Charlotte in order to take home the win.
Close down space for Charlotte’s attackers
Against Chicago on Wednesday night, Atlanta’s defense gave the Fire too much time and space, especially in transition, so they could create overloads on the flanks and be dangerous throughout. Brad Guzan made seven big saves to keep the game tight. Charlotte has creative and dangerous attackers on the flanks as well. Pep Biel has found his stride this season with nine goals and 10 assists. He’s the most dangerous attacker on the squad now. Wilfried Zaha brings that EPL pedigree with him and can score at any moment. Atlanta’s defense will need to have one of its best performances of the year in order to stop Charlotte’s attack.
Turn press into bigger scoring opportunities
Against Chicago on Wednesday, Atlanta’s defensive pressure looked as good as it has all season. On several occasions, the team pressed Chicago deep in its own half. They forced turnovers high up the fieldbut weren’t able to capitalize on them. The next step in Atlanta’s game must be to quickly transition from defense to offense in those moments and be more clinical and sharper with its passing in the final third. When the team presses as a unit, it can regain the ball in the opponent's final third and then need only a couple of passes to create scoring chances.
Fans can tune in on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. ET when the action kicks off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. To hear the action on radio, tune into Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (English) or La Mejor – AM 1600 (Spanish).
Atlanta United is ready for a thrilling rivalry match up vs Charlotte FC July 19 at 7:30 p.m. ET, where once again the 17s will show why Mercedes-Benz Stadium was named No. 1 Loudest Stadium in MLS by Newsweek. Tickets are still available for both matches.
