Get to know the matchup in Keys to the Game, presented by Honda:
Keeping the Momentum
New York and Atlanta United both ended Wednesday’s matchday with positive momentum. The two clubs were on the right side of 2-2 draws, completing comebacks following early deficits.
The Red Bulls went down early to Charlotte FC, allowing the Crown to net two goals in the game’s first 18 minutes. However, New York used goals in the 53rd and 58th minute to level the score and help the club end the night with a well-earned point.
Similarly, Atlanta faced a 2-1 second-half deficit to NYCFC in its match. The 5-Stripes used a 63rd minute equalizer to earn one point at the end of the night.
New York and Atlanta are looking to keep their positive momentum on Saturday night. However, only one team can prevail with three points. Entering their second match of the week, will the Red Bulls be able to continue moving in the right direction against fifth-place Atlanta, or will the 5-Stripes be able to tie its club-record eight straight unbeaten streak?
Back Line Battle
New York’s defensive line has been consistently strong this season. Conceding only 18 goals in 18 matches, the Red Bulls have allowed the fourth-lowest number of goals in the MLS.
Facing that back line on Saturday will be Atlanta, whose offense leads the league with 37 goals scored this season.
Of those 37, eight have been scored from outside the 18-yard box, tying Atlanta for first in the league in goals from outside the penalty box.
Thiago Almada, Atlanta’s star midfielder, has scored seven goals this season while tallying nine assists, the most in the MLS.
These two sides face off on Saturday evening; will Atlanta be able to get around New York’s defenders, or will the Red Bulls’ back line be able to hold it down at home?
Homefield Advantage
Atlanta has been a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference this season with a record of 7-4-8.
Still, the 5-Stripes are entering Red Bull Arena on Saturday with an away record of 1-3-5.
In their 15 career matchups, the Red Bulls hold the advantage with a record of 9-2-4 with Atlanta.
At home, New York holds a record of 3-2-4 this season, earning a result in nine of their last 11 MLS matches at Red Bull Arena.
Will the atmosphere and familiarity of their home arena push the Red Bulls to three points on Saturday, or will Atlanta be able to capture a result on the road?
