Atlanta United Vs San Jose Earthquakes: 5 things we learned – Crazy, crazy night

2. Atlanta controls their own destiny

After the win on Wednesday night, Atlanta has played 29 of its 34 matches this season. They are now level with Red Bulls in matches played, and with a four-point lead over New York, Atlanta controls its own destiny.

Let’s take a quick look at Atlanta’s final five opponents: home vs Real Salt Lake, away vs New York Red Bulls, home vs New England Revolution, home vs Chicago Fire, away vs Toronto FC.

All of these matches are winnable, with only two of these opponents sitting above the playoff line in their respective conference. Real Salt Lake, who sit fifth in the West, can be dangerous but are inconsistent. A win this Saturday at home against RSL would give Atlanta 63 points and would help extend their lead over New York. The match against New York will be a real test and will most likely have the Supporters’ Shield on the line, assuming no slip-ups from either Atlanta or New York.

Atlanta should take at least seven points from their last three matches, as New England and Chicago are very close to being eliminated from playoff contention at the moment and will certainly be eliminated by the time Atlanta has to play them.

If the Five Stripes take care of business in their last three home matches (meaning three wins), they will have at least 69 points this season, which would tie Toronto FC’s record from last season. It can easily be done and if Atlanta can get results on the road against both New York and Toronto, their goal of winning the Supporters’ Shield can become a reality.