ATL Standard

At the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, Atlanta United is preparing for their next playoff challenge after eliminating Inter Miami in the Audi 2024 MLS Playoffs. The team will face Orlando City SC in a single-elimination Conference Semifinals match on November 24.

Defender Stian Gregersen and veteran Dax McCarty discussed the team's preparations with local media. Despite a break for international matches, which saw seven players including Saba Lobjanidze, Bartosz Slisz, and Alexey Miranchuk called to represent their countries, McCarty emphasized that they are taking a no-excuses approach. "It is not easy, but it is not like every team does not have to deal with it," said McCarty.

Gregersen returned from international duty with Norway after participating in a victory over Kazakhstan. Reflecting on the break, he stated, “In the moment, you want to keep going... We just have to keep up good training habits.”

Atlanta United and Orlando City SC have faced each other 21 times before but never in playoffs. McCarty has spent significant time recently in his home state of Florida and expects family at the match. "I would say probably around the same number, about 40 or 50," he said regarding family attendance.

The upcoming match against Orlando promises intensity due to their rivalry. Atlanta won both regular-season matches against them this year. McCarty noted Orlando's possession-heavy style and stressed maintaining balance: “You don't want to allow them to have too much of the ball… we’re just going to have to be sharp in all phases of the game.”

As Atlanta United prepares for Sunday’s match, they aim to continue their successful run despite earlier low expectations of making playoffs. Gregersen highlighted increased confidence within the team: “You can see so much more confidence in the group.” McCarty also expressed appreciation for these moments as he nears retirement: “It's a little bit of a new lease on life.”

Fans can watch Atlanta United take on Orlando City SC via MLS Season Pass or listen locally on radio stations 92.9 The Game (English) and La Mejor (Spanish).