Our prediction for this MLS match:
Philadelphia Union will be looking to build on thrilling victories over DC United and New York City as they host Atlanta United in what promises to be an exciting MLS encounter. The U’s have been in fine form, showcasing their attacking potential, and with a nearly fully fit squad at Jim Curtin’s disposal, they will be confident of securing another three points. The only absentee for the home side is midfielder Isaiah LeFlore, but his absence is not expected to significantly impact their performance.
Atlanta United, meanwhile, have struggled defensively of late, conceding exactly two goals in each of their last three league games. Injuries to the likes of Xande Silva, Quentin Westberg, and Ronald Hernandez further complicate things for the visitors, who will need to tighten up at the back if they want to avoid another disappointing result. Given Philadelphia's recent form and Atlanta's defensive issues, we predict that the in-form hosts are going to emerge triumphant in Sunday's clash.
Highlighted Player (Andre Blake):
Andre Blake is a Jamaican goalkeeper who plays for MLS club Philadelphia Union. Blake was born in May Pen, Jamaica, on November 21, 1990, but he went to the UConn college in United States of America. The 193-cm-tall shoot-stopper spent three years playing college football and in 2014 he signed a professional contract with Philadelphia Union.
Andre Blake made his debut for the U in July 2014 in a friendly game against Crystal Palace and he played his first MLS match against Montreal Impact. Speaking of his international career, the goalkeeper made his Jamaica debut on March 2, 2014 in a 2-0 victory over Barbados. Later that year Andre Blake won the Caribbean Cup with the Reggae Boyz as they defeated Trinidad and Tobago on penalties in the title game.
Over the years Blake has established himself as a first-team regular and, no doubt, there is a bright future ahead of him. The Philadelphia Union shoot-stopper wears the number 18 on his shirt.
Highlighted Team (Atlanta United):
Atlanta United is a Major League Soccer club and they were founded on April 16, 2014. They are based in Atlanta, Georgia and they will make their debut in MLS in 2017. Arthur Blank is the club’s owner and Bobby Dodd Stadium is Atlanta United’s home ground.
Arthur Blank is an American businessman, who is well known for his ownership of the NFL club Atlanta Falcons. The venue was opened on September 27, 1913 and its’ current capacity is 60.316. However, it has to be noted that the team will play first eight home games of the 2017 season at Bobby Dodd Stadium, while the latter nine fixtures will be hosted by Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Speaking of the club’s colors, Atlanta United footballers wear black and red shirts and black shorts with a little bit of gold mixed in. Gerardo Martino, who used to be in charge of La Liga side Barcelona in the past, will coach Atlanta United in the 2017 MLS season. Tata Martino won the Spanish Super Cup with Barca, while making it to the Copa America final with Argentina on two occasions (2015, 2016).