Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs: What to expect from Atlanta United's Wild Card game

Atlanta United's MLS Cup Playoff Journey Begins

Atlanta United will start their Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoff adventure on October 21 against the New England Revolution in the Wild Card round. Atlanta secured the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 12-9-13 record throughout the regular season. While their journey to the playoffs was filled with ups and downs, Atlanta United will enter the Wild Card round as the in-form team after winning four straight games to close out the regular season, including a 2-1 victory over the Supporters' Shield-winning FC Cincinnati on Decision Day.

Keys to Success for Atlanta United

Atlanta United's success in the playoffs will rely on a few key factors. Firstly, Josef Martinez needs to continue his excellent form in front of goal. The Venezuelan striker has 13 goals in 26 appearances this season and will be crucial to Atlanta's chances of causing an upset against New England. Luiz Araújo, who has emerged as a valuable addition to the team since arriving from Lille in July, will also be an important player for Atlanta in the playoffs. The Brazilian winger has four goals and five assists in 16 appearances for Atlanta and will be looked upon to provide creativity and pace in the attacking third. At the back, Miles Robinson will be key to marshalling the Atlanta defense as he returns from a long-term Achilles injury.

New England Revolution: A Tough Test for Atlanta United

The New England Revolution will provide a difficult test for Atlanta United in the Wild Card round. The Revs finished second in the Eastern Conference with a 17-9-8 record and have been one of the most consistent teams in MLS this season. New England has a strong defense, conceding just 31 goals in 34 games, which will be a tough test for Atlanta's attack. The Revs also have plenty of quality in attack, with Gustavo Bou, Carles Gil, and Adam Buksa all capable of causing problems for Atlanta's defense. Atlanta United will need to be at their best to overcome the Revolution and advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Conclusion

Atlanta United's Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoff journey has the potential to be a special one. The team has been in excellent form in recent weeks and will be confident of causing an upset against the New England Revolution in the Wild Card round. However, the Revs will be a tough test, and Atlanta United will need to be at their best to progress to the Eastern Conference semifinals. But if they can continue their recent form, there's no reason why Atlanta United can't make a deep run into the playoffs this season.