Atlanta United looks to bring home a victory Sunday night in their new home stadium against FC Dallas after not winning in four straight matches. The energy and passion of the atmosphere will bolster the Five Stripes’ chances of succeeding. However, the playoff-contending FC Dallas will have hopes of spoiling the new homecoming for Atlanta. Let’s look at what Tata Martino and his squad should look out for when they lace up for Sunday’s fixture.
Currently in 6th place, FC Dallas is barely in a playoff spot with having just one point over the current 7th place San Jose Earthquakes in the Western Conference and just two over 8th Place Real Salt Lake. This pressure itself is enough to light a fire under Óscar Pareja’s squad as every point is going to matter in the final push of this season. FC Dallas has an away record of 3-5-4 vs their 6-2-6 and home record. Hopefully, these woes will continue for the Toros.
Currently, FC Dallas ranks 13th out of the 22 MLS teams in terms of goals scored over the season. The Toros attacking side consisting of Urruti and Lamah looks to expose the Atlanta defense. Dallas will be without the services of midfielder Jacori Hayes as he is serving a suspension after getting a red card violation in the previous match. Atlanta may find that getting past goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez to be quite a task as he allows the 8th fewest goals on average in the league with 1.29 goals a game.
Even though I don’t buy into these much, FC Dallas is ranked #14 in the most recent MLS power rankings, with Atlanta coming in at #10. This match between the current 6th place holders of both of the Major League Soccer conferences will prove to be an exciting and thrilling match. Dallas does have some weapons, but they are not invulnerable. Expect a close game with a lot of emotions given what is at stake for both sides.
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