Atlanta United vs Portland Timbers: 5 key players to watch
By Josh Bouland
1. Darlington Nagbe
Darlington Nagbe will be playing against his former team for the MLS Cup. Portland made Nagbe the second overall pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft and he did not disappoint for the club in his seven seasons with them. His first goal for the Timbers was absolutely stunning and was named the 2011 MLS Goal of the Year. Nagbe also helped Timbers to their MLS Cup win in 2015 on the road over Columbus Crew.
Nagbe will be important to watch for a couple of reasons. For starters, he is an important cog in Atlanta’s midfield, connecting the defense to the attack and shutting down opposing attacks. His role is often hardly seen and unnoticed, but it is very important.
Perhaps most importantly, Nagbe may have unfinished business against Portland. In the June 24 meeting between these two teams, Nagbe suffered an adductor injury and had to be subbed off in the 57th minute as a result. The injury was very impactful and sidelined Nagbe for almost three months.
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Saturday night will be an opportunity for Nagbe to shine on the biggest stage of the season. How poetic would it be if Nagbe’s first goal for Atlanta United came against his former team in the MLS Cup Final no less?