Atlanta United vs DC United Prediction: Atlanta United are expected to edge out DC United in a closely contested match, with a final score of 1-1 after regular time, followed by Atlanta United clinching victory in the ensuing penalty shootout.

Match Preview: High Stakes in Group East 7

The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is set to host a pivotal Leagues Cup encounter as Atlanta United welcome DC United in their Group East 7 opener. Both teams will be eager to start their campaign on a positive note, with the match scheduled for July 27, 2024, at 12:00 AM local time.

This fixture marks the beginning of an intriguing group stage that also includes Mexican side Santos Laguna. With only the top two teams advancing, securing three points in this opening match could prove crucial for both Atlanta and DC United’s aspirations in the tournament.

Atlanta United vs DC United Lineups and Formation

Atlanta United Lineups (4-3-3): Thiare, Fortune, Hernandez, Silva, Guzan, Muyumba, Rios, Lennon, Williams, Slisz, Gregersen

DC United Lineups (4-2-3-1): McVey, Stroud, Dajome, Rodriguez, Santos, Ku-DiPietro, Herrera, Benteke, Klich, Peltola, Bono

Recent Form Injury and Team News

Atlanta United enter the contest with mixed form in their recent MLS outings. The Five Stripes secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Columbus Crew in their last match, showcasing their resilience with a comeback win. Prior to that, they played out an entertaining 2-2 draw against New York City FC.

Manager Rob Valentino will be pleased with his team’s attacking prowess, having scored multiple goals in their last four home matches. However, defensive frailties remain a concern, with clean sheets proving elusive in recent fixtures.

DC United, on the other hand, come into this match on the back of a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Celtic in a friendly encounter. However, their league form has been more encouraging, with a thrilling 3-2 away victory against Minnesota United in their most recent MLS outing.

The Black-and-Red have shown their ability to find the back of the net consistently, but like their opponents, they have struggled to keep opposition attacks at bay.

Injury and Availability Report

Atlanta United:

  • Noah Cobb: Unavailable (International duty with U.S. Olympic team)
  • Edwin Mosquera: Doubtful (Knee injury)
  • Jamal Thiare: Doubtful (Shoulder injury)
  • Caleb Wiley: Unavailable (Transferred to Chelsea)
  • Thiago Almada: Unavailable (Transferred to Botafogo)

DC United:

  • Jacob Murrell: Out (Head injury, expected return in August)
  • Conner Antley: Out (Knee injury, expected return in August)
  • Russell Canouse: Unavailable (Personal reasons)

Both teams will need to adjust their strategies and lineups to account for these absences. Atlanta United, in particular, will feel the impact of losing key players like Wiley and Almada to transfers, while DC United’s midfield options are limited due to injuries and personal circumstances.

Key Players to Watch

For Atlanta United, all eyes will be on Stian Gregersen. The Norwegian defender has been in impressive form, contributing at both ends of the pitch. His brace against Columbus Crew demonstrated his aerial threat from set-pieces, while his defensive acumen will be crucial in containing DC United’s potent attack.

DC United’s hopes will largely rest on the shoulders of Christian Benteke. The Belgian striker has been in scintillating form this season, currently sitting just one goal behind the MLS Golden Boot leader. His ability to hold up play and finish clinically makes him a constant threat to any defense.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

These two sides have already met twice in the 2024 MLS season, with each team securing an away victory. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to their Leagues Cup encounter, as both teams have proven they can perform on the road against each other.

Historically, matches between Atlanta United and DC United have been closely contested affairs, often producing high-scoring encounters. Their most recent meeting saw Atlanta emerge victorious with a 1-0 win at Audi Field.

Where to Watch

Fans can catch all the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. The streaming service will provide comprehensive coverage of the match, including pre and post-game analysis.

Atlanta United vs DC United Live Stream and TV Schedule Other Countries

  • United States: MLS Season Pass
  • Canada: MLS Season Pass
  • United Kingdom: MLS Season Pass
  • Germany: MLS Season Pass
  • France: MLS Season Pass
  • Spain: MLS Season Pass
  • Italy: MLS Season Pass
  • Australia: MLS Season Pass
  • Japan: MLS Season Pass
  • Brazil: MLS Season Pass

Atlanta United vs. DC United Prediction: Goals Galore in Atlanta

Given the attacking prowess of both teams and their recent defensive frailties, this match has all the ingredients for a high-scoring affair. Atlanta’s home advantage could prove decisive, but DC United’s ability to score on the road cannot be underestimated.

Predicted Score: Atlanta United 1-1 DC United (Atlanta United win on penalties)

This thrilling encounter is likely to see both teams find the back of the net, but Atlanta’s strength at home and recent momentum could see them edge out a narrow victory in what promises to be an enthralling start to their Leagues Cup campaign.

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