Match Preview: Atlanta United at D.C. United

Eric Rossitch

On Wednesday, Atlanta United travel to the nation’s capital to face off against Eastern Conference rivals D.C. United. Atlanta (6-6-3) are coming off a third consecutive home victory in a 3-1 battle over the Columbus Crew, meanwhile D.C. United (4-8-3) are looking to rebound after a 2-0 defeat against Toronto at BMO Field. In the last meeting between the two sides in Atlanta just weeks ago, the match result fell in favor of D.C., so ATL UTD will hope to avenge the loss suffered on their home turf.

Don’t miss the clash of the United’s on Wednesday night. Catch all the action starting at 7:30 p.m. EST on FOX Sports South or via FOX Sports GO.

Atlanta United (6-6-3)

Atlanta United are steaming with momentum after they topped the Columbus Crew last weekend in front of another sellout crowd at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The victory marked their third straight MLS home win and brings them to 21 points on the year, lifting the expansion side to 7th in the Eastern Conference standings and sitting just under the playoff line with a game in hand.

Their three goals on Saturday night contributed to their league-leading tally of 31 thus far on the season. At the helm of Atlanta’s lethal scoring front is the South American trio of Miguel Almirón, Josef Martinez, and Tito Villalba, who combined, are responsible for 20 of the impressive 31 goals. But perhaps more impressive, none of the three are over the age of 23.

Leading the team with 8 goals, Paraguayan playmaker Almirón continues to prove his poise and prowess as one of the most creative and exciting number 10’s in the league, quickly turning into a fan favorite around MLS.

Venezuela international Martinez returned last week from his long-term injury that sidelined him since March and Atlanta fans are just as happy to see him back on the field than the man himself. He’s taken no time to pick up where he left off, scoring 2 goals last week including a header in their U.S. Open Cup debut and the dagger in their win over the Crew.

Last time out against D.C., Atlanta fell 3-1 on home soil, so the Five Stripes will hope to return the favor as they travel to RFK stadium on Wednesday.

D.C. United (4-8-3)

D.C. United are currently suffering a midseason MLS rut to say the least. Sitting in last place in the Eastern Conference with 15 points, the club located in the nation’s capital are struggling on all fronts and head coach Ben Olsen has yet to figure out how to rejuvenate his side.

In contrast to Atlanta’s league leading goal tally, their northern United conference foes are experiencing some serious scoring woes. They have failed to find the net in three straight matches and are scoreless in six of the last seven, with the single goal coming from the penalty spot.

D.C. do have a few players that could cause trouble for Atlanta with the tricky, clever Luciano Acosta pulling strings from the center of the park and keeper Bill Hamid in goal who, despite his team’s recent performances, has been quite impressive. But still, RFK is no fortress as the black and red have only won twice this year in the comfort of their own home.

D.C. may have stole three points in the ATL earlier in the year, but they know it won’t get any easier on Wednesday as they take on a hot, revenge-seeking Atlanta United side.