Atlanta United (14-8-7) will be looking to clinch their spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs as they host the Philadelphia Union (9-12-9) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Wednesday night. With so much on the line, Five Stripes fans should be wary of what kind of threat the Union pose. Click here to learn more about the contributions of C.J. Sapong, Andre Blake and Jack Elliott, the three players featured the last time these two teams faced. Here’s a few other things Atlanta Untied fans should have their eyes on this Wednesday:
Peaking Pontius
There’s no doubt who the main danger man is for the Philadelphia Union this season. Center forward C.J. Sapong’s 14 goals are more than double anyone else on the team this season. But winger Chris Pontius has been a vital part of the Union offense for years, and he’s coming off his best performance of the season. His two goals played a crucial role in their 3-1 win against Chicago this weekend. The performance snapped a 28-game scoreless streak for Pontius, one of the longest of his career, but he will be hoping that will be the start of a strong scoring form. He excels with his work rate and strength, winning a header and showing awareness to clean up a rebound for his scoring opportunities last weekend. Pontius is keen to pounce on any misstep, so the Atlanta United defensive line will have to keep a constant focus if they want to stop a Pontius scoring run before it gets off the ground.
Rosenberry on the Right
23-year-old Keegan Rosenberry was one of the biggest success stories of last year’s rookie class, an MLS All-Star that finished just behind Jordan Morris in the MLS Rookie of the Year vote. The right back’s contributions on the field were enough to catch the eye of U.S. National Team coach Bruce Arena, who called Rosenberry into a national team camp earlier this year. After facing an unexpected spell on the bench earlier this season, he has forced his way back into the lineup as of late for the Union. His runs down the right flank from deep positions have been a weapon for Philadelphia, especially with a target-man like Sapong to get on the end of crosses in the box. But if Atlanta United can win possession with Rosenberry high up the field, they could take advantage with their impressive ability to attack in transition.
Contrasting Streaks
Philadelphia has picked up impressive results at home this season, including a 3-1 win over Chicago on Saturday and holding Atlanta United to a draw last month. But their road form has been a different story. The Union are winless in their last ten road games – with just one clean sheet in that time – allowing 1.6 goals per game in that time. Atlanta United, meanwhile, have been dominant at home this season, gong unbeaten in their last 11 home games and outscoring opponents 35-9 in that time. Two more goals would put Atlanta into the top 10 for most goals scored in league history, while their four clean sheets in their past five matches have brought their goal differential to the top five in league history as it stands. Despite missing key playmaker Miguel Almirón, Atlanta will be looking to extend this streak to officially clinch their playoff spot with a victory Wednesday night.
Follow Along
The 7:00 p.m. kickoff will be broadcast live on Fox Sports South and the Fox Sports GO app, as well as the club’s radio partners, 92.9 The Game and La Mejor Radio. There are still tickets available for the mid-week matchup. Be there in person to cheer on the Five Stripes by reserving your spot here.
