As Atlanta United prepares to welcome Nashville SC to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, the clash marks more than just a routine fixture. For Atlanta, a team still looking to reassert its place among Eastern Conference contenders, it's a critical opportunity to stabilize their season and reignite enthusiasm among their demanding and devoted fanbase.
Over the years, Atlanta has cultivated a strong home identity while leading the MLS in attendance several times since the club’s 2017 debut. But recent seasons have brought turbulence. Coaching changes, injuries to key players, and defensive frailties have left the team grasping for consistency. While a win alone won't solve systemic issues, it would go a long way in restoring momentum and bridging the emotional gap between the club and supporters.
For Nashville SC, the urgency is not the same but the stakes might be nearly as high. Having smashed seven past the Chicago Fire in their last MLS encounter will give the traveling fans extra voices. They’ve climbed up to 6th in the Eastern Conference. The squad is lauded for its defensive rigidity, and its offensive fluidity can be a bit vulnerable at the back and lacking bite in the final third. A loss in Atlanta could throw a spanner in their fast-turning wheels.
Head-to-Head Record
In their shared MLS history, Nashville has enjoyed the better results. Across 12 all-time meetings, Nashville holds five victories to Atlanta’s three, with four matches ending in a draw. Importantly, Atlanta has failed to beat Nashville in their last six meetings.
Atlanta’s last five home encounters with Nashville — 2 wins apiece and a 2-2 draw on May 29, 2021 — showcased Nashville's defensive discipline and Atlanta’s struggle to break down low blocks.
Team News and Player Availability
Atlanta United:
- Tristan Muyumba: (Hip): A major midfield loss. His dynamism and coverage have been missing, and his return is not expected until late September.
- Derrick Williams: (Head): Veteran defender remains day-to-day. His experience on and off the bench has been valuable.
- Stian Gregersen: (Hip) Out indefinitely. Gregersen’s absence has tested Atlanta’s defensive leadership and stability.
Nashville SC:
- Walker Zimmerman (Head): The combative defender remains out. His absence has hurt Nashville’s ability to control the tempo and play comfortably from the back.
- Julian Gaines: (undisclosed) A summer signing meant to add energy and versatility, he’s still nursing a knock but could return later in May.
- Maximus Ekk (knee): A midfield stability loss, especially in aerial duels. Expected back in mid-September.
- Tyler Boyd (ligament): A Creative and potent attacker may return soon, but remains unlikely for this fixture.
Both teams head into this weekend’s clash with significant injury concerns. The injuries to key midfielders on both sides mean that this game could be more free-flowing than past meetings, particularly in transitional moments.
Ronny Deila’s squad has produced uneven results since the start of the season. Despite flashes of brilliance — like their 4-3 comeback win at home over New York FC in round 6 — they have often lacked urgency and finishing polish at crucial moments. With 9 points from 10 matches, they sit 12th in the East. Deila has emphasized patience and tactical discipline, but fans have grown impatient. A statement win is needed.
Players to Watch
Atlanta United:
- Emmanuel Latte Lath: The Ivory Coast forward has tallied five goals in 9 appearances this season. Known for his physicality and movement in the box, he will be vital in exploiting a vulnerable Nashville backline.
- Miguel Almiron: Arguably the team’s MVP, Almiron has two goals and two assists, serving as the creative nucleus of Deila’s attack. His set pieces and long-range shooting make him a constant threat.
- Saba Lobzhanidze: A dynamic winger with pace and flair. His ability to beat defenders 1v1 could open up space for Latte Lath and Saba Lobzhanidze.
Nashville SC:
- Hany Mukhtar: Despite Nashville’s struggles, Mukhtar remains their talisman. With four goals and two assists, he’s still one of the most dangerous attackers in the league. If he gets the right service, he can instantly change a game.
- Sam Surridge: The English forward has chipped in with six goals and one assist, but has been starved of service recently. Needs to link better with Mukhtar to cause Atlanta problems.
- Jeisson Palacios: The Colombian international remains the emotional leader of this side. His aerial prowess and tactical awareness are Nashville’s best chance of frustrating Atlanta’s frontline.
Tactical Matchup
Expect both sides to line up in familiar 4-2-3-1 formations. Atlanta will aim to control possession, with Saba Lobzhanidze and Almiron pulling the strings. The fullbacks — Lennon and Amador — play an essential role in stretching the field, which could expose space if Nashville counters quickly.
Conversely, Nashville will look to sit deep, absorb pressure, and spring quick counters through Mukhtar. Sam Surridge, who is in midfield, might struggle to contain Atlanta United’s trio. B.J. Callaghan may opt for a more conservative double pivot to protect his defense. The game could be decided by which side wins the midfield battle and how efficiently they play in transition.
Predicted Lineups
Atlanta United (4-2-3-1): Guzan (GK) - Lennon, Cobb, Abram, Amador - Miranchuk, Slisz - Klich, Almiron, Lobjanidzi - Latte Lath
Nashville SC (4-2-3-1): Willis - Lovitz, Palacios, Maher, Najar - Tagseth, Yazbek - Shaffelburg, Mukhtar, Muyl - Surridge
What’s at Stake for Atlanta United?
In a league where parity is celebrated and form can shift dramatically; a single game rarely defines a season. Yet for Atlanta United, this match feels particularly pivotal. Fans, who once filled Mercedes-Benz Stadium with unwavering support, have grown restless. While ticket sales remain high, the atmosphere has noticeably cooled.
A convincing win over a conference rival—and long-time irritant — like Nashville could be a watershed moment. It would not only move Atlanta up the table but also send a message that this squad still carries the fire and ambition the supporters demand.
For Ronny Deila, it’s a chance to show he's worthy of fans' patience. For the players, it’s an opportunity to prove their mettle. And for the club as a whole, it’s a chance to remind the league why Atlanta was once considered the gold standard of MLS expansion success.