Major League Soccer returns this weekend with a full slate of fixtures as we dive into yet another set of high profile clashes. We’re still in the early stages of the campaign but we’re starting to get a feel for how a few teams are approaching the season, even though there’s still a long way to go. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fun game between New York City FC and Atlanta United.
New York Form GuideAfter years of trying, New York City finally climbed to the top of the mountain back in 2021 and won the MLS Cup. In the present day, though, they seem to have taken their foot off the gas ever so slightly. At this point, their aim is to get back to a point of prominence at the elite level - but we still believe it’s going to take a bit of time for them to get there, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Following on from losses to Charlotte, St Louis and Portland, New York finally got on the right track with a 2-1 win at home to Toronto. From there, though, they slipped back into old ways, dropping a 1-0 defeat to Cincinnati before only managing a 1-1 draw with Miami.
Atlanta Form GuideAtlanta United were once seen as the most exciting new team in the league but these days, they can’t quite put everything together in a way that guides them to a late playoff run. They did finish 6th in the Eastern Conference which was a pleasant surprise for many, but in the post-season, they were beaten in their best of three by eventual champions Columbus.
Atlanta lost their opener against Columbus but they quickly bounced back with comfortable wins over New England and Orlando. From there, they went on the road and lost 2-0 to Toronto, but they still got back on the horse with another big win - this time 3-0 over Chicago.
Match PredictionThis one is all about the possession game because if New York give up too much of it, especially in the first half, the visitors are going to walk all over them. Unfortunately for the hosts, we think that’s exactly what is going to happen, which is why we’re backing an Atlanta win.
