Match Preview: Atlanta United faces New York City FC at home in midweek

Atlanta United is hoping to get back to winning ways at home after a long stretch on the road. The last time the 5-Stripes played at home, the game ended in spectacular fashion. On Saturday, June 29, after a sneaky goal from Jamal Thiare in the final minutes of the game, the 5-Stripes came away with a 2-1 victory, their first home win since March.

New York City FC, meanwhile, sits in fifth place in the MLS Eastern Conference with 36 points. They have a 2-2-1 record in their last five games. Their most recent game ended in a 0-0 draw against the Chicago Fire.

Atlanta has a 4-5-7 record against New York City FC. The last three games between the two clubs have ended in draws. The most recent was in early April of this year. The 5-Stripes traveled to Citi Field for the game; Thiare scored in the 65th minute^th minute was the equalizer for Atlanta United.

Brad Guzan (Atlanta United) – As a veteran MLS goalkeeper, Brad Guzan has been a big defender for the 5-Stripes all season, including in the team’s last away game in Canada. The keeper made a few key saves, including a point-blank shot from former teammate Josef Martínez, and finished the night with six saves to limit Montreal to just one goal. Guzan has three shutouts this year and has had key performances like the one against D.C. United that earned him a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday 21.

Santiago Rodriguez (NYCFC) – With eight goals and seven assists, both tied for the most on the team, Rodríguez has played a big role in New York’s attack. His great ability to create chances, especially in the final third, is due to his quick touches on the ball. One of the keys to Atlanta getting a good result will be containing NYCFC’s diverse attack, especially Rodríguez.