ATL Standard

Atlanta United's playoff journey in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs has been marked by a display of resilience, as highlighted by goalkeeper Brad Guzan. Reflecting on their Game 3 victory against Inter Miami CF, Guzan noted, “Our resiliency... to continue to push and fight... that part was fantastic.”

Entering Decision Day with only a 10 percent chance of making the playoffs, Atlanta United managed to secure a spot as the No. 9 seed. They are now just two wins away from reaching the MLS Cup Finals after achieving what many consider the biggest upset in MLS history.

Next, Atlanta United will face Orlando City SC in the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday, Nov. 24. This matchup marks the first time these teams meet in an MLS playoff setting, despite having played each other 21 times before. Of those encounters, Atlanta has won ten times, including six victories on the road.

Interim head coach Rob Valentino described past games against Orlando as "bizarre" and "end-to-end at times." The most recent clash occurred on October 19 when Atlanta secured a crucial win to earn their playoff berth.

The international break has given Atlanta an extra week of preparation for their upcoming match against Orlando. During this period, seven players were called up to represent their countries internationally. Guzan expressed eagerness to maintain momentum: “You just want to keep it going.”

Valentino emphasized managing players' fitness levels during this break: “There’s a plan for every player,” he stated, referencing veteran goalkeeper Guzan's continued performance at age 40.

The semifinal round introduces single-elimination stakes and potential extra time periods if tied after regulation. Both teams feature standout goalkeepers; Guzan set a new club postseason record with nine saves in Game 3 against Miami while Pedro Gallese excelled for Orlando in their series against Charlotte FC.

Guzan hopes Atlanta's attack remains strong: “I hope it’s about our strikers... scoring goals,” he said, underscoring his role as a goalkeeper to support his team’s offensive efforts moving forward.