Atlanta United vs. Nashville SC: Five Takeaways From Preseason Week 1

Nashville SC expect to join Atlanta United in MLS for the 2019 season, where they would immediately become one of Atlanta’s biggest rivals. Something both sets of fans appear to be looking forward to.

Atlanta United opened their pre-season with a comfortable win over Nashville SC. The gods weren’t smiling on Nashville fans, with their first ever game played in torrential weather. Rain pummeled First Tennessee Park and playing conditions were dire, but Atlanta United was still able to record a comfortable victory.

Here are five takeaways from Atlanta’s pre-season debut.

1) Strong Fan Support

Nashville Business Journal reported that First Tennessee Park was sold out weeks before kickoff. Nashville’s vocal support was noticeable during the game, where fans defied the weather to cheer on their team.

A definite buzz surrounded the game, which bodes well for the future success of the franchise. Their expansion slot was awarded on the strength of their vibrant soccer community. It seems faith in the city has paid off.

2) The $15 million man

Ezequiel Barco had a confident but unspectacular start to his Atlanta United career. He didn’t score or provide any assists during the game, but his class shone through. He had several strong runs, and his performance was peppered with quality touches. Barco was substituted at halftime but is expected to get more minutes as pre-season progresses.

Barco started on the left wing but occasionally drifted inside in search of the ball. He was lively throughout and was also taking set-pieces, sending over several good balls. Still only 18, he showed why he is such an excellent prospect.

3) Attacking Flair Remains

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Atlanta United picked up where they left off in 2017 with their trademark attacking play. They appear to have lost none of the flair, or panache which became their trademark during their inaugural season. Darlington Nagbe had a particularly strong debut. He controlled possession and provided a quality assist to Brandon Vasquez.

Nagbe and Barco already look like excellent acquisitions. Possibly the missing pieces to playoff success in 2018?

4) A Historic Goal

Ropapa Mensah enshrined himself in Nashville SC folklore (and ensured he will be the answer to a quiz question, for the rest of his life) by scoring Nashville SC’s first ever goal. It was a quality finish from an Alan Winn pass, lifting the ball over Alec Kann. It briefly brought Nashville within a single goal, before Brandon Vazquez sealed the game for Atlanta in the 78th minute.

5) A Great MLS Rivalry To Look Forward To

This was a promising start for a future Nashville/Atlanta United rivalry. Something which can only benefit both franchises. Mother nature tried her best but was unable to turn this event into the damp squib it threatened to be. There was a great atmosphere between the two sets of fans throughout, and they were rewarded with an enjoyable game.

Next: USMNT Summer Schedule Set with Pair of European Friendlies

Both sets of fans left the stadium happy, but for different reasons. Atlanta was obviously happy with the win, and a solid performance. Nashville fans were just happy to be there. One step closer to their MLS dream.

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