Atlanta United Vs Orlando City: 3 players to watch

Atlanta United Vs Orlando City: 3 players to watch – U.S. Open Cup on the line

ATLANTA, GA AUGUST 03: Atlanta's Josef Martinez (7) lays on the ground after missing a shot during the MLS match between LA Galaxy and Atlanta United FC on August 3rd, 2019 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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ORLANDO, FL – JULY 31: Leandro González Pirez #5 of MLS All-Star and Diego Costa #19 of Atletico Madrid fight for the ball during the 2019 MLS All-Star Game between MLS All Stars and Atletico de Madrid at Exploria Stadium on July 31, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images) /

1. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez

Atlanta’s best defender missed Saturday’s match against LA Galaxy because of yellow card accumulation but will be back on Tuesday night. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez last played with the team on July 26 against LAFC. He logged some minutes in Orlando last week during the All-Star game as well.

With Gonzalez Pirez getting a game off, he should be well-rested for Tuesday night’s crucial match. He will be an important player as his organization of the backline will be crucial in stemming a dangerous Orlando attack.

Gonzalez Pirez will also be instrumental in helping to shut down Orlando’s best player, Nani. Nani missed the May match in Atlanta because of a small injury. Atlanta won that contest 1-0 in a game where Orlando failed to put away their best chances. With Nani most likely playing on Tuesday, look for Orlando to be more clinical in the final third.

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Gonzalez Pirez also has a little bit of personal success against Orlando. In his 86 appearances with Atlanta, he only has two goals. One of those goals came last August in the 2-1 win over Orlando, just days after the birth of his daughter. It was a special moment, and because of that fond memory, he will be sure to try and create another this Tuesday night.

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