Atlanta United Prepares for Historic Match Against San Diego FC

ATLANTA, Ga. — Atlanta United will face San Diego FC for the first time Saturday afternoon as the teams meet in an important Major League Soccer matchup. The game is set to kick off at 4:30 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Atlanta United, known as the 5-Stripes, will aim to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Columbus Crew last weekend, where they conceded five goals in a shocking first half. The team is looking for a strong defensive showing against San Diego, which currently sits at the top of the Western Conference and is just one point shy of the Philadelphia Union in the Supporters’ Shield race.

The match will also celebrate Latin Heritage Night, and fans can pick up specific merchandise at the Atlanta United Team Store located in Section 102.

Head coach Ronny Deila and assistant coach Pedro Amador spoke with the media following a rigorous training session. They discussed the team’s defensive struggles and the need for improvement in light of the upcoming match against a high-scoring San Diego team.

“We need to be more aggressive defensively and compact as a unit,” Amador said, emphasizing the importance of defensive support during game play. Atlanta United has been integrating new players, including summer signings Enea Mihaj and Juan Berrocal, into its backline.

Atlanta United received good news with forward Emmanuel Latte Lath returning to match fitness. Latte Lath has been sidelined since August 16 due to a hamstring injury. However, defender Matt Edwards continues to struggle with his recovery and will not play, while Will Reilly is out with a hamstring strain he sustained against Columbus Crew.

The team aims to capitalize on the urgency displayed in their comeback against Columbus, where they scored two quick goals in the second half. Deila highlighted the need for the 5-Stripes to start fast and apply pressure on San Diego from the opening whistle.

“Playing with urgency from the start is critical,” Deila said. “We need to avoid letting them dominate the match.”

Fans can watch the game live through MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app or listen on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game in English or La Mejor – AM 1600 in Spanish.