Atlanta United: 5 must-watch matches ahead of 2020 season

HARRISON, NJ - MAY 19: Frank de Boer Head Coach of Atlanta United FC after MLS match between Atlanta United FC and New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on May 19 2019 in Harrison, NJ, USA. The New York Red Bulls won the match with a score of 1 to 0. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Corbis via Getty Images) /

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HARRISON, NJ – MAY 19: Hector Villalba #15 of Atlanta United is held back by Luis Robles #31 of New York Red Bulls to stop him from getting into it further with any Red Bull players after MLS match between Atlanta United FC and New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on May 19 2019 in Harrison, NJ, USA. The New York Red Bulls won the match with a score of 1 to 0. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Corbis via Getty Images) /

4. May 16 at New York Red Bulls

Every match between Atlanta United and the New York Red Bulls should be circled on the neutral viewer’s calendar. While the results between these teams are relatively one-sided (the Red Bulls lead the series 5-1-2, including playoffs), there is always intensity and passion between the players on the pitch.

New York may have had Atlanta’s number in the regular season, but the Five Stripes can boast their lone playoff win from 2018 en route to winning MLS Cup. That occurred in a season where New York set the record for most points in an MLS season, effectively stealing the Supporters’ Shield from Atlanta on Decision Day.

This specific match, taking place in Harrison, was chosen over the match in Atlanta for a couple of reasons. First, Atlanta have yet to score a goal at Red Bull Arena in four tries. Second, and a fact with direct ties to the previous point: Atlanta have yet to win on the road against New York. What better time to get that first road win against Red Bulls than 2020? This match should be exhilarating from start to finish if any of the previous eight meetings between these clubs is an indication.

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