Atlanta United Seeks Glory in the Leagues Cup

Friday night promises to be electrifying at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Don’t let the slightly later start time, 8:00 p.m. ET, fool you because what's at stake is nothing less than Atlanta United’s survival in the Leagues Cup.

Atlanta United takes the field donning their 17s jersey, carrying not just the colors but the spirit of a fan base that never gives up. Speaking of perseverance, interim coach Rob Valentino’s squad knows that their fate in the tournament rests in their hands. If they get past the group stage, the possibility of playing a knockout match at the historic Bobby Dodd Stadium becomes real. But as Valentino aptly put it, whether it’s Friday, Saturday, or Wednesday, game day is game day.

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This will be the third clash between Atlanta United and D.C. United this season, and so far, the teams are tied with one win apiece. But what exactly is this Leagues Cup? For those not yet familiar, it’s a World Cup-style tournament that brings together all the MLS and Liga MX clubs. It's an intense and thrilling competition, running this year from July 26 to August 25. Each team plays two games in the group stage, and the top two advance to the single-elimination phase. And if the match ends in a draw? No prolonging the suspense: a penalty shootout decides the winner.

Both Atlanta United and D.C. United are coming off MLS victories. Atlanta United showed grit by turning the game around against Columbus Crew, winning 2-1 with two headed goals from defender Stian Gregersen. This performance earned Gregersen a spot in the MLS Team of the Week. On the other hand, D.C. United is also on a roll, coming off wins against Nashville SC and Minnesota United, with forward Christian Benteke in great form, scoring crucial goals, including a hat trick at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium itself.

Speaking of Benteke, he’s definitely one to watch. With 16 goals in the MLS season, he’s in the hunt for the top scorer title. Atlanta United knows they need to neutralize the Belgian striker, just as they did in June when they beat D.C. United 1-0 at Audi Field.

On Atlanta United’s side, Saba Lobjanidze is a standout name. The number 9 is tireless on the field, leading the team in assists and sharing the top scorer spot. His playmaking ability and the dynamism he brings to the game make him a key player in Rob Valentino’s strategy. With 20 goal contributions in 30 matches, Lobjanidze is leaving his mark.