In a highly anticipated Major League Soccer (MLS) showdown, Atlanta United will host Toronto FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium this Saturday. Both teams are eager to break free from their recent slumps and secure vital points.
Atlanta United, struggling with a seven-match winless streak at home, aims to strengthen its precarious playoff position. Meanwhile, Toronto FC seeks to end a six-match winless run and regain their early-season form. As these two teams clash, fans can expect a thrilling encounter filled with high stakes and intense competition.
Atlanta United's Struggles and Prospects
Interim manager Rob Valentino has made some positive strides, remaining unbeaten in his three matches in charge.
Historically, Atlanta United has never lost a regular-season game against Toronto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, drawing 1-1 in this fixture last year.
Toronto FC's Recent Form and Challenges
Toronto FC is experiencing a downturn after a strong start to the season. They have lost three consecutive matches and are on a six-match winless run in the MLS.
Defensively, the team has struggled, conceding nine goals in their last three league matches. Toronto's attack has also faltered, failing to score in three of their last four away games.
Despite their recent poor form, Toronto has shown improvement on the road, securing nine away points this year compared to just four in the previous season.
They have a decent record against Atlanta United, with points from their last three regular-season meetings but have only one victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, dating back to the 2019 MLS Cup playoffs.
Team News
Atlanta United
Atlanta will be without Edwin Mosquera (knee issue), Stian Gregersen (hamstring strain), and Tyler Wolff (MCL sprain).
Thiago Almada is back from suspension, while Bartosz Slisz and Luis Abram are on international duty. Daniel Rios, who scored in their last game, will be a key player to watch.
Toronto FC
Toronto will miss Tyrese Spicer (lower back issue), Shane O'Neill (quad strain), and Brandon Servania (ACL injury).
Richie Laryea and Jonathan Osorio are on international duty with Canada, while Sean Johnson is representing the USA.
Toronto’s attacking hopes will rest on players like Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne.
Predicted Lineups
Atlanta United
Formation: 3-4-3
Starting XI: Guzan; Morales, Williams, Cobb; Lennon, Fortune, Almada, Wiley; Thiare, Rios, Silva
Toronto FC
Formation: 3-4-3
Starting XI: Gavran; Rosted, Long, Gomis; Bernardeschi, Coello, Longstaff, Marshall-Rutty; Etienne, Insigne, Owusu
Prediction
With Toronto’s defensive vulnerabilities and key players missing, Atlanta United are expected to take advantage and secure a 2-0 victory, maintaining their unbeaten run under interim manager Rob Valentino.
Atlanta 
Toronto FC 
