Our prediction for this MLS match:
Atlanta United will look to put an end to their four-game winless run when they take on Columbus Crew in the MLS Cup last 16, reverse fixture. Columbus defended home field in the first leg, meaning that this has to go down as a must-win game for the home side. The good news for the hosts is that talented midfielder Thiago Almada is back from suspension, while South Sudan forward Machop Chol remains on the sidelines with injury.
The Crew, meanwhile, aim to give fans yet another reason to celebrate, but seeing that Atlanta United are a real force to be reckoned with at home, we are tempted to put our money on the Five Stripes. A man to keep an eye on in the away team will be former Premier League ace Cucho, while Will Sands continues to miss out with injury.
Highlighted Team (Atlanta United):
Atlanta United is a Major League Soccer club and they were founded on April 16, 2014. They are based in Atlanta, Georgia and they will make their debut in MLS in 2017. Arthur Blank is the club’s owner and Bobby Dodd Stadium is Atlanta United’s home ground.
Arthur Blank is an American businessman, who is well known for his ownership of the NFL club Atlanta Falcons. The venue was opened on September 27, 1913 and its’ current capacity is 60.316. However, it has to be noted that the team will play first eight home games of the 2017 season at Bobby Dodd Stadium, while the latter nine fixtures will be hosted by Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Speaking of the club’s colors, Atlanta United footballers wear black and red shirts and black shorts with a little bit of gold mixed in. Gerardo Martino, who used to be in charge of La Liga side Barcelona in the past, will coach Atlanta United in the 2017 MLS season. Tata Martino won the Spanish Super Cup with Barca, while making it to the Copa America final with Argentina on two occasions (2015, 2016).