Atlanta vs New York City predictions for the midweek MLS clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta are in good shape to reach the playoff, while NYCFC are in crisis without a win in their last 10. Continue reading below for all our free tips and predictions.
Match Live Thursday, 22th June at 12:30 am In:
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Atlanta United vs New York City Predictions
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The Clash of the Stripes
Key Stats
– Struggling Attack: NYCFC failed to score in 5 of last 7 away games.
– Almada’s Streak: 10 goals in last 10 appearances for Atlanta’s Almada.
As the Major League Soccer (MLS) intensifies, Atlanta United prepares to welcome New York City FC (NYCFC) at their home turf, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, this Wednesday. The Five Stripes seek to extend their current MLS unbeaten streak to seven matches, while the Boys in Blue attempt to snap a disappointing 10-game winless streak in all contests. This matchup promises an intriguing encounter with the potential to influence the standings in the Eastern Conference.
Atlanta United’s Unwavering Performance
Atlanta United, currently ranked sixth in the Eastern Conference, recently emerged victorious in their preceding home game with a decisive 3-1 scoreline against DC United. Since Gonzalo Pineda’s tactical alterations, the squad has experienced a remarkable transformation. With Atlanta not experiencing a domestic loss since mid-May’s setback against Charlotte FC, the team’s newfound dynamism and creativity have come to the fore.
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Tactical changes, like shifting Derrick Etienne to the right wing and situating Caleb Wiley on the left, have enriched Atlanta’s offensive prowess. The results are palpable, with the team netting three or more goals in three consecutive home matches, making them the second most prolific team in MLS with 35 goals – only one short of Columbus Crew’s tally.
Even more impressive is their performance in the second half of matches. Sixteen of their 22 home goals this season have been scored post-half-time, resulting in Atlanta losing only one domestic match at home in 2023.
The resilience of this squad is noteworthy as well. Despite relinquishing eight points when leading in the second half, the Five Stripes have managed to claw back five points when trailing in the final 45 minutes. Their last home triumph against NYCFC, a 2-1 victory, dates back to 2019 – something they are eager to repeat.
New York City FC’s Struggles
On the other side, NYCFC are grappling with challenges. With a current streak of nine consecutive domestic matches without a win, they risk equaling their longest winless run in a single MLS campaign if they fail to secure a win on Wednesday. The Boys in Blue’s struggles are further amplified by their lack of punch in the attacking third, ranking among the bottom five Eastern Conference teams with fewer than 20 goals this season (18).
Interestingly, NYCFC’s scoring struggles are evident in their away performance. They have not scored multiple goals in any of their away matches this year, and their only clean sheet came in a goalless draw against Real Salt Lake at a high altitude venue. Three of their four victories in 2023 have come against Eastern Conference rivals, but they’ve only managed two regular season road victories since Nick Cushing took the helm.
Key Players and Predictions
Atlanta United’s goal threat is embodied in the person of Thiago Almada. The Argentinean playmaker, who is involved in both scoring and creating goals for Atlanta, has so far netted seven goals and provided eight assists. His consistent performances and ability to produce decisive moments make him a good bet to score anytime during the match. His conversion rate is impressive, with seven goals from 19 shots from inside the box and five from 44 shots from outside the box, displaying his proficiency from varied locations.
The upcoming fixture, therefore, holds significance for both teams but for different reasons. For Atlanta United, a victory could potentially propel them further up the Eastern Conference, consolidating their position in the playoff spots. Conversely, NYCFC desperately needs a win to revive their dwindling season and steer clear of the conference’s bottom positions.
However, it won’t be an easy task for NYCFC to turn their fortune against Atlanta United, who are seemingly in excellent form at home. Both the statistics and recent form point towards an Atlanta United win. Their home-ground advantage, recent run of form, and the high-energy performances of key players like Thiago Almada make them the clear favourites in this clash.
In contrast, NYCFC must find a solution to their goal drought, especially when playing away from home. Their reliance on defence has been evident throughout the season, and while keeping clean sheets is important, winning games will require them to be more proactive and lethal in the final third.
The Clash of the Stripes, as it is being termed, will be a testament to both the teams’ resilience and determination. In terms of the final score, given Atlanta’s attacking prowess and recent form, a 2-1 victory in favour of Atlanta United seems like a decent bet in the correct score market. This prediction takes into account Atlanta’s recent high-scoring home games, NYCFC’s away goal drought, and the historical context of Atlanta’s last home victory against NYCFC.
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