Houston Dynamo vs. Atlanta United: Preview and How to Watch

Houston Dynamo Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera expects to unload a more intense attack on home opponents this season. Atlanta United get to oppose it with their more experienced attack.

The Houston Dynamo plan more intense attacks and stronger midfield disruption this season. Atlanta United have a more experienced 4-2-3-1 staff to attack and break through the defense in their first game of the season.

Houston Dynamo

2017 Record (W-L-D): 13-10-11. Finished 4^th in Western Conference

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Last Time Out: Knocked out of the second leg of the conference play-offs by the Seattle Sounders. Yet they became only the third expansion club to make the MLS playoffs in their first season.

Player to Watch For: Start out with F Alberth Elis. He rained goals through regular post-season games last season. He vows to place among the league’s goal-leaders this season. Should you want to move on, go for F Mauro Manotas. He’s essentially promised the same thing.

Should both player make good on promises in this first game, it will rank as a goal-record in MLS.

Why They Win: They remained practically unbeatable at home last season. If the team really has improved in all areas, they graduate to really unbeatable.

Why They Won’t: The road opponents in this first game have improved, as well.

Predicted Starting XI (4-3-3):

Atlanta United FC

2017 Record (W-L-D): 15-9-10, 4^th in Eastern Conference

Last Time Out: Shootout loss to Columbus Crew in the first round of the playoffs.

Player to Watch For: Start with F Josef Martinez. He scored a hat-trick against Houston last season. If you want to change during the game, shift to M Miguel Almiron. He’ll put on a clinic winning duels and passing with extraordinary accuracy.

Why They Win: If most of the first half passes with a low score, the road opponents figured it out. They’ll win.

Why They Won’t: Houston’s home pitch has the effect of adding three players on defense. In the best games, it adds one in the midfield.

Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):

Score Prediction: 

Next: Three things to watch: Real Salt Lake vs. FC Dallas

How to Watch:

Where: BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston

When: 3:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, March 3.

Channel: Univision

Stream: MLS Live