Will Atlas FC destroy Real Salt Lake? Leagues Cup surprise promises turnaround

Atlas FC, one of the giants of LIGA MX, are preparing for an explosive clash against Real Salt Lake in the 2024 League Cup. Coming off the back of an impressive win over an MLS side, the Mexicans will be going all out against one of the best American teams of recent years. But do they have what it takes to beat RSL? Let's explore what promises to be an epic battle.

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Real Salt Lake aren't messing around. Even without their top scorer, Cristian "Chicho" Arango, who is suspended, the team has shown impressive resilience. Colombian duo Andrés Gómez and Diego Luna have been making it rain on the pitch. Gómez, with 13 goals and 9 assists, is in top form, while Luna, despite being left out of the US Olympic team, has shown his worth with 5 goals and 12 assists. RSL's attack is dynamic and dangerous, even with the absence of Arango.

Atlas FC, on the other hand, haven't let up either. Eduardo Aguirre has been lethal up front, and on-loan winger Raymundo Fulgencio and Jhon Murillo have provided crucial support. José "Rivaldo" Lozano, often coming off the bench, has been a decisive asset, scoring important goals like the one that secured the win over Houston. Atlas' defense, led by veteran goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, is solid and difficult to penetrate. The Zorros arrive in Salt Lake City unbeaten in their first five games of the season, with three wins.

The duel promises to be fierce. Real Salt Lake, in third place in the MLS Western Conference, have shown consistency and strength. RSL have a respectable record against Mexican teams at home, and the support of the fans at America First Field will be a factor in their favor. However, Atlas FC are determined to change their fortunes after a disappointing LIGA MX 2023/24 campaign. The League Cup offers a new chance for both teams to shine.

Arango's absence is a blow for RSL, but the team has the depth to compensate. Benji Michel and Lachlan Brook are new additions who can make an impact, and the signing of Jamaican defender Javain Brown adds more solidity to the defense. Brown, eager to show his worth under Pablo Mastroeni, is ready to give his all for the club.

On the Atlas side, confidence is high. With a win, they can replicate their six-point group stage from 2023 and advance to the knockout phase with full force. Camilo Vargas' leadership and experience will be crucial, and the skill of Aguirre and his attacking teammates could make the difference.

Thursday's match is not just about advancing in the League Cup, but also about asserting superiority in a tournament that unites MLS and LIGA MX. For Real Salt Lake, it's a chance to show that they can compete with and beat the best in Mexico. For Atlas FC, it's a chance to redeem themselves and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with.

With the history of both teams, we can expect an action-packed game, with scoring chances on both sides. The pressure will be on RSL to take advantage of the home factor and overcome the absence of Arango. Atlas FC, on the other hand, with their sturdy defense and sharp attack, will be looking to exploit any weaknesses their opponents may have.