Atlanta United FC is set to play its first home match of the 2026 season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, facing Real Salt Lake on Saturday evening. The game marks a significant moment for head coach Tata Martino, who returns to lead Atlanta United for the first time since 2018.
Martino expressed the importance of the occasion after training on Thursday. “For us, for the fans, for the club, it’s a game of great importance,” he said in Spanish.
The team is looking to rebound from two consecutive losses at the start of the season. Several players will be experiencing their first match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Elías Báez, a recent addition to the squad, commented on the team’s mindset: “We have to try to come out with a positive mindset, that at home [the opponent] doesn’t come anywhere near us.”
Saba Lobjanidze also spoke about the need for mental strength as they approach their home opener. “We know we are good quality players, but we need mental strength,” he said after training Tuesday. “… We know the way to coming back, and we have to win the game. This is the good thing. We have a home game, and it’s a perfect opportunity.”
Enea Mihaj emphasized trust in Martino’s tactics and highlighted the upcoming stretch of home games: “I feel that the players feel they trust what we are doing,” Mihaj said after training Thursday. “… We have four games at home now, so we want to give everything to get as many points and victories we can to bring back the positive energy and positive mindset.”
Matías Galarza joined Atlanta United this week on loan from River Plate in Argentina and could make his debut in midfield. Martino discussed Galarza’s potential role: “He can do a number of different things that we think is going to help the team,” Martino said. “… He’s competing with any of those three midfielders … but really there’s permanent competition in the midfield.”
Martino outlined his tactical focus ahead of facing Real Salt Lake: “Everything comes from maintaining control of the ball,” he said. “Real Salt Lake is a direct team, they have good transitions. If we control the middle of the field and keep the ball, we avoid those transition moments.”
Mihaj added thoughts on defensive responsibilities: “[It’s] about distance, smart decisions, not losing the ball and trying to make smart tactical fouls for to [prevent] the transition,” he said.
Lobjanidze acknowledged fan support while stressing player responsibility: “They are the best fans in MLS for me,” Lobjanidze said, “and they deserve more from us.”
Mihaj reflected on how player effort impacts crowd engagement: “From my experience in football until now, [there’s] only one thing you can do to make the crowd [get loud]: when they see a player fight,” Mihaj said.
Atlanta United FC operates out of Atlanta, Georgia as part of Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference official website. The club has previously won major titles including MLS Cup in 2018 and both U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup in 2019 official website.
Tickets remain available for Saturday’s match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
