Atlanta United marked history once again as they debuted in their new home of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday. Atlanta (11-8-6) are hoping to build off a 3-0 victory on Sunday and make it eight-straight unbeaten at home while New England (10-12-5) are looking to earn their first road win of the season.
Ahead of Wednesday’s midweek matchup, we broke down the Tools to the Match presented by Home Depot:
1) Lock Down Lee
The Revolution have been one of the most consistent teams in the league over the past few seasons. They just missed out on the playoffs last year by goal differential, marking the first time since 2012 that they didn’t make the cut. A key to their recent success has been U.S. international midfielder Lee Nguyen, who’s pulled the strings for the Revs over the past few years with his crafty play, precise passing and superior vision. Nguyen already has nine goals and 14 assists this season, and there’s no doubt New England will try to run their dynamic attack through the MLS veteran on Wednesday night. It will be important for Atlanta to keep track of his whereabouts at all times.
2) Contain Kei
Now a household name in the league after spending time with several MLS clubs since 2006, forward Kei Kamara sits at 10th on the all-time scoring list with 97 regular season goals. The 33-year-old joined New England from the Columbus Crew in May of 2016 and the attacker hasn’t lost a step. A powerful aerial threat with blistering pace combined with a keen sense of awareness, Kamara’s versatile attacking demeanor still forces defenses to respect his game. Already with 11 goals and four assists this year, Kamara is on track to double both of his tallies from last season.
3) Hype the Home Crowd
It’s just halfway through the club’s inaugural season and it’s no secret now that Atlanta boasts one of the toughest atmospheres to play in for opposing teams. With 10-straight sellouts and an average of 45,000+ in attendance, the Atlanta faithful have built a fortress in the heart of the ATL. Anyone who witnessed the club’s debut in Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday evening saw first-hand why Atlanta United currently holds a seven-straight unbeaten streak at home. Leandro Pirez’s 14th minute goal on Sunday sent the crowd wild and the sound continued to amplify throughout the match. Another early goal from the expansion club on Wednesday night could be a crucial step in defeating the Revolution.
How to Follow
You can catch all the action between Atlanta United and the New England Revolution on Wednesday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium at 7:00 p.m. EST on FOX Sports South or via FOX Sports GO. Click here for all details on how to follow the match.
