After playing two consecutive matches at home, the 5-Stripes hit the road again this weekend when they travel to take on FC Cincinnati. After a disappointing result against Miami last weekend, Atlanta is hoping to get back on track in the Queen City. A win on the road could provide a big boost ahead of three more home matches to follow. Cincinnati has had a busy opening month with league and Concacaf Champions Cup matches. They are coming off a 2-0 defeat at Charlotte last time out. Let’s take a look at the Tools to the Match presented by Home Depot against FC Cincinnati:
Pass the squad depth test this weekend
The March international break has arrived, and Atlanta United featured the most first team call-ups across the entire league with eight. Atlanta United 2 player Dominik Chong Qui was also called up after being in the first team matchday squad for three of the first four matches. Head coach Ronny Deila will have to count on the squad depth more than ever this weekend against Cincinnati. Especially on the defensive side of the ball, expect to see some changes.
Offensively, the team will be mostly intact, with Latte Lath, Saba Lobjanidze and Alexey Miranchuk available. Latte Lath showed his aerial prowess once again last weekend with a far-post header goal against Miami. If Atlanta’s attack can be more consistent and dangerous this weekend, there is a chance to take home points from a tough environment at TQL Stadium.
Don’t allow Evander to take over the match
Cincinnati won’t be at full strength either in this one on Saturday. The Orange and Blue are going to be missing their top scorer Kevin Denkey due to international duty. Former Atlanta defender Miles Robinson was injured last time out, while Gilberto Flores picked up a red card and is suspended. Cincinnati will have their new No. 10, Evander, available though. The former Portland Timbers star made the move to Cincinnati this year and he has shown throughout his MLS career that he can take over games by himself. He had 34 goal contributions last season, firmly putting him in the MVP race. If Atlanta’s defense can keep tabs on Evander all game long and not commit easy mistakes that lead to goals, they have a chance to take home a positive result against FC Cincinnati.
Utilize the wing play to feed Latte Lath
The first goal of last week’s match showcased just how simple and effective Atlanta United can play. Brooks Lennon made his return and provided immediate width on the right-hand side. His first cross of the match found Latte Lath alone at the back post, and the Ivorian scored his third goal of the season. With both starting fullbacks now healthy, Atlanta now has the chance to provide good service from both flanks to Latte Lath and the other attacking players. If the 5-Stripes can consistently do that, they will create more dangerous scoring opportunities for their main striker Latte Lath. The Ivorian has already tallied three goals and has proven his ability to score in different ways throughout his career.
