Atlanta United vs CF Montréal: Key Matchup in MLS Cup Playoffs Wild Card Game

The Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs kick off on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, with a highly anticipated Eastern Conference Wild Card game between Atlanta United and CF Montréal. The match is set to take place at Stade Saputo in Montréal, Quebec, with a kickoff time of 7:30 p.m. ET.

This will be the third meeting between the two teams this season, with Montréal having won the first two matchups, both by a single goal. Atlanta United is looking to reverse this trend after securing the final playoff spot with a road win against Orlando City SC on Decision Day. Montréal, on the other hand, finished in eighth place in the Eastern Conference standings after a 2-0 victory against NYCFC.

The match will be decisive, with the winner advancing to face Inter Miami in the first round of the playoffs. If the score is tied after 90 minutes, the game will proceed directly to penalties.

Atlanta United is riding a positive momentum wave after their impressive win at Orlando, where they scored two goals within the first 16 minutes. Saba Lobjanidze, who scored his ninth goal of the season in that match, will be a key player for Atlanta. The team’s defense will need to be alert to contain Montréal’s dangerous attack, led by striker Josef Martinez and Caden Clark, who have combined for all nine goals in Montréal’s last five matches.

One of the strategic keys for Atlanta will be to take advantage of attacking set pieces, as Montréal has conceded 22 set piece goals during the regular season, including nine from corner kicks. Additionally, Atlanta must avoid conceding early, as both teams have struggled to win after giving up the first goal.

Fans can watch the match for free on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, with radio coverage available on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (English) and La Mejor – AM 1600 (Spanish).

The MLS has seen a significant surge in attendance this season, largely due to the influence of Lionel Messi, who has helped the league achieve a new record average attendance of 23,234 per game. This playoff match is part of a postseason that promises high excitement and competitive soccer).