ATL Standard

After traveling to California to face the MLS Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Galaxy, Atlanta United has returned to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground in preparation for their next match. The team will head back on the road to play against regional rival Charlotte FC on Saturday, Aug. 31.

Following training on Tuesday, defender Derrick Williams and homegrown midfielder Ajani Fortune spoke with local media about the takeaways from their match against LA Galaxy and the importance of securing three points against Charlotte FC.

Almost three weeks separated Atlanta’s final match in Leagues Cup and their return to MLS action last weekend. On Saturday, the 5-Stripes appeared refreshed and challenged LA Galaxy until the 76th minute when the home side broke through. Galaxy addition Marco Reus made a notable impact during the game, contributing a goal and an assist in his MLS debut.

Derrick Williams, a key player in Atlanta’s defense, commented on how well he thought the team performed in the first 60 minutes of the match. Williams remarked that he felt like the first half reminded him of Atlanta’s 3-1 victory over Miami back in May. The club aims to take positives from that road match against Los Angeles and apply them going forward.

“I thought we looked dangerous. They didn’t look like they were going to break us down, and we were catching them under the counterattack. Hopefully, we can apply that to Charlotte,” said Williams.

Atlanta United has already faced Charlotte once this season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. On June 2, they played one of their strongest first halves of the season. A goal awarded after VAR confirmation shifted momentum in favor of Charlotte.

“The goal gave them life,” Williams said. “Thinking back, I think we could have had three or four goals in the first half. Second half, we came out and they made adjustments. They were pressing high, and we have to be aware of that.”

One bright spot from the match against Galaxy was midfielder Jay Fortune's performance. The Homegrown player has now participated in 19 games for Atlanta, starting six of them. Fortune told local media that he played striker growing up and showed flashes of his offensive skills during Saturday's match. Committed to maintaining his recent strong play, he understands how crucial the rivalry against Charlotte is – describing it as a “dog fight.”

“I think we both know it’s a big game for both of us,” said Fortune. “It’s a derby that both teams are going to want to win. They’re at home; they’re going to put everything into the game. It is important we start with intensity.”

The 5-Stripes have eight games left in the regular season, including Saturday's game at Charlotte, as they continue fighting for a playoff spot.

Fans not attending the match can catch all actions via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV or listen on local radio stations 92.9 The Game and La Mejor.