Philadelphia Union will face Atlanta United in an MLS regular season match. Both teams are looking for a result, being winless so far this season.
Martino’s Atlanta Return Faces Early Challenges
Atlanta United’s start to the season has not been an auspicious return for coach Tata Martino. He previously oversaw one of the league’s greatest launches, culminating in an MLS Cup in 2018. Atlanta United haven’t won a match. They have scored only 3 goals in their last 5 matches, and have failed to keep a clean sheet.
Martino has experimented with players in various positions and may not yet be sure of his best XI. The addition of Alexey Miranchuk as an attacking midfielder in the game against Salt Lake finally saw the attack come together. He scored both goals in their last game, working with Almirón and Emmanuel Latte Lath.
Of particular concern is the back line, which has shown a capacity for individual mistakes. There also seems to be a lack of communication among the back line and midfield. Atlanta United fans may be looking for more changes after last week’s loss, but Martino is likely to use the same back line as he did in Atlanta’s 2-3 loss to Salt Lake City.
Philadelphia’s Search for Rhythm
New faces, mental errors, back-to-back red cards in back-to-back games, along with a crowded fixtures list have meant that the Union are working with a highly rotated squad that’s still trying to find its rhythm. The back line has not been as steadfast as in seasons past, though it may be coming together. Olwethu Makhanya, Geiner Martínez and/or Nathan Harriel make for a solid center back pairing.
There remains a disjointed feel between midfield play. Both Milan Iloski and Jovan Lukic seem slightly off the pace in possession. But it’s the wastefulness in front of goal that is the most glaring problem. The Union are still suffering from the loss of the attacking threats of Kai Wagner and the absence of the injured Quinn Sullivan.
Match Details
- Who: Atlanta United FC vs. Philadelphia Union
- What: MLS Regular Season, Matchday 4
- Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
- When: Saturday, March 14th, 3:15 PM
Whether their front line can score more goals than their back line leaks might be the key to the game.