The Day Orlando Tries to Tame the Underdog Against Atlanta United

This Sunday, November 24, is shaping up to be one of those unforgettable days. Orlando City and Atlanta United, two long-standing rivals, are squaring off at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando for the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2024 Audi MLS Cup. Orlando, the “good boys” of the Southeast, comes in as the favorite. But Atlanta? They’re the perfect definition of an underdog.

Orlando is that team everyone expects to "make it." Their roster is solid, their season stats impressive (52 points, 15 wins, and just one loss in their last 14 matches), and they’ve got Pedro Gallese, a goalkeeper who might as well be a human wall. Throw in Facundo Torres, a forward who seems to thrive under pressure, and you’ve got a team ready to play hero ball if the moment demands.

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Now, let’s talk about Atlanta, the team that lives by the mantra, “The bigger the challenge, the better the payoff.” Atlanta United entered the playoffs as the ultimate underdog, with 40 points, 10 wins, and a mountain of issues to overcome. Not only did they knock out Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the previous round, but they did it with style. Anchored by Brad Guzan in goal and an attack that’s found its rhythm just in time, Atlanta isn’t here for fun and games.

And here’s the kicker, they punched their playoff ticket by beating Orlando City in the final match of the regular season. Yep, they’ve already walked into Orlando, faced the fiery home crowd, and left with a 2-1 win. If we’re being honest, history seems to be on their side. Remember 2018, when Atlanta stunned everyone and took home the MLS Cup?

But this game isn’t just about who moves on to the Eastern Conference final. It’s about pride, rivalry, and, let’s be real, a hefty dose of revenge. Orlando wants to prove they’re finally the kings of the region. Atlanta? They want to keep playing the part of the underdog nobody saw coming.

Predicting this one is tougher than choosing between Texas BBQ and New York pizza. Orlando’s got the upper hand, strong roster, consistency, and the weight of being the favorite. But Atlanta has what I like to call “the wild card factor.” They’re fearless and have already shown they can beat Orlando on their own turf.

It’s going to be a nail-biter; the kind of game where you’re grateful you don’t have to get off the couch for another beer. In the end, though, I think home advantage tips the scales. With their fans behind them and the talent of Facundo Torres and Gallese leading the charge, Orlando should edge this one out, but not without a fight.