ATL Standard

Following two consecutive home matches, Atlanta United is now on the road for the next two matches. With only five matches remaining in the regular season, each game is crucial in the battle for one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. The 5-Stripes sit just one point out of the ninth and final playoff spot. The Red Bulls are in fifth place, tied on points with fourth-place Orlando City as they vie for home-field advantage in the first round of the upcoming postseason.

Atlanta secured a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami in midweek action, while New York did not play midweek. Red Bull Arena historically has not been a stadium where the 5-Stripes have found much success. They will look for their first-ever victory at that venue on Saturday night.

One strategy to set the tone for a road match is scoring early. This season, New York has conceded 10 goals in the opening 15 minutes of a match, tied for the worst mark in the league coming into Saturday. Conversely, Atlanta has scored only two goals within that timeframe, with only Chicago Fire having fewer goals. When Atlanta scores in the first half and takes that lead to halftime, they are 5-0-1 (W-L-T) this season. If Atlanta can capitalize on early mistakes by New York to grab an early lead, it could set them up for a significant road victory.

The Red Bulls have added Swedish international Emil Forsberg this season, providing them with a difference maker who can change games at any moment. His presence has allowed other players like Lewis Morgan to thrive; Morgan leads the team with 12 goals and four assists. Forsberg has contributed six goals and three assists in just 15 matches played. Atlanta’s defense will need to focus closely on both players on Saturday night.

New York has also excelled on set pieces this season, scoring 14 goals from such situations, including six from corner kicks. Atlanta has conceded seven goals off corner kicks this year, making this a key matchup to watch.

The Red Bulls' style of play involves high intensity and energy from the start. Their high pressing has troubled many teams over the years, including Atlanta United. To avoid falling behind early against such pressure is crucial because New York maintains their intensity throughout the full 90 minutes.

Atlanta’s passing accuracy often drops below its season average when facing New York. Alexey Miranchuk should be one of their key outlets; his calmness on the ball and incisive passing could help bypass New York’s press and enable quick transitions into attack. Successfully playing through Red Bulls’ high press could create scoring opportunities for Atlanta.

Fans can tune into MLS Season Pass on Apple TV on Saturday night at 7:30 pm ET when action kicks off at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. For radio coverage, listeners can tune into Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (English) or La Mejor – AM 1600 (Spanish).