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US Open Cup Preview: Atlanta United vs Charleston Battery

By Richard DeLaurell

May 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United fans in the yell from the stands during the first half against New York City FC at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Historic Grant Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
May 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United fans in the yell from the stands during the first half against New York City FC at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Historic Grant Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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US Open Cup 4th Round Features Savannah River Border Clash

Atlanta United FC of MLS and Charleston Battery of USL will have to put aside their affiliate relationship this week as the two clubs get set to meet in 2017 US Open Cup competition.

The rossonero Five Stripes of Atlanta United FC are due to get a new Mercedes-Benz later this year.  Actually, they are moving to a new stadium branded by MB.  But for now, their home is on the campus of Georgia Tech.  Except for this Wednesday night when they will defend the turf at Kennesaw State north of Atlanta.  United are currently more than 10 points off the pace in the MLS Eastern Conference, but their numerous and devoted fans don’t seem to mind at all.

Charleston Battery are leading their own Eastern Conference in the USL. Gunners opened a 4 point margin over second place Tampa Bay Rowdies with a win last Saturday night.

Here’s a preview of Wednesday night’s game.

Atlanta United FC (H)

Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
  • Current MLS Record (W-L-D): 5-6-3
  • Last Time Out: 0-2 away loss to Chicago Fire in league play on June 10.
  • Player to Watch For: At this point in the season defenders would be asking for trouble not to keep an eye on Miguel Almirón.  Almirón is the team leader in goals scored, but perhaps more important his shots-on-goal percentage is hovering around a very healthy 50%.  The big news this week for AU FC fans, however, is the return of Josef Martinez.  He has been out injured since March.  Martinez saw 20 minutes’ play in the Chicago match and the team is reporting that he will gain the start against the Battery.
  • Why They Win: United sport a robust +6 goal differential for the season.  That despite being in the lower half of the conference table.  They feature goal-scoring threats from midfield forward.  With Martinez back, they are just that much more formidable up front.
  • Why They Won’t: Battery have more than one capable goalkeeper and play disciplined defense.  Altogether the club concedes just about 1 goal per match.
  • Predicted Starting XI:

Charleston Battery

  • Current USL Record (W-L-D): 8-2-3
  • Last Time Out: 1-0 home win over Richmond Kickers in league play.
  • Player to Watch For: Keeper Odisnel Cooper will be facing United’s offense at full strength.  If he can post a clean sheet against Atlanta he will be in the rare company and his side might move on in the Open Cup.
  • Why They Win: Battery are very good at taking advantage of their opportunities on stopped balls.  If they can convert at least one set piece against Atlanta that may be enough to forge an upset.
  • Why They Won’t: First blood drawn in this match will be very important.  The first goal is likely to be the winning goal.  United’s quick pace off the mark may be too much for the somewhat banged up Battery.
  • Predicted Starting XI: 
  • Score Prediction:

Atlanta United 2

Charleston Battery 0

Next: More Open Cup: Sacramento v RSL Preview

How to Watch: 

  • Where: Fifth Third Bank Stadium at Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
  • When: Wed. June 14, 7:30p ET
  • Channel: Stream live at altutd.com/live or via ussoccer.com.
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