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Atlanta United returns home on Saturday night to face Toronto FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Following a successful two-match road trip that yielded four points, the team aims to build on this momentum with a home victory. Historically, Toronto has been a challenging opponent for Atlanta, holding an all-time edge of 6-4-6 (W-L-T). Atlanta’s recent unbeaten run in three matches has elevated them to ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings, while Toronto sits just one spot and three points ahead.

Earlier this year, Toronto secured a 2-0 victory at home against Atlanta. Here are the key factors for Atlanta's success against Toronto FC:

**Solid Defense and Limiting Shots on Target**

Atlanta United’s defense has been strong throughout the season despite injuries and international call-ups affecting the backline. The team ranks among league leaders in several defensive categories, having faced only 92 shots on target—the eighth fewest in the league—and limited opponents to just 17 clear-cut chances, which is fourth fewest. Homegrown players Noah Cobb (18) and Caleb Wiley (19) have already played over 1,000 minutes each this season. Maintaining solid defense and limiting Toronto’s scoring opportunities will be crucial for Atlanta.

**Matching Intensity and Quality in the Final Third**

Toronto started the season well under new head coach John Herdman but has since seen a dip in form, currently sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference with 24 points from 20 matches. Key players Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi remain significant threats; Bernardeschi leads nearly every offensive category for Toronto with seven goals, five assists, 27 shots on target, and 42 key passes. Insigne has contributed four goals and four assists despite limited playing time. Shutting down this Italian duo will be essential for Atlanta.

**Scoring Early to Engage Supporters**

Despite scoring 26 goals this season, only one of those came within the first 15 minutes of play. Expanding that timeframe to the first 30 minutes yields just three goals. An early goal would put pressure on Toronto from the start and engage home supporters early on. Notably, when leading at halftime this season, Atlanta holds a perfect record of 40-0.

Fans can watch Saturday night's match via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV at 7:30 pm ET or listen live on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (English) or La Mejor – AM 1600 (Spanish).