After another thrilling come-from-behind victory last weekend, Atlanta United is right back at home this Saturday to take on FC Dallas. The 5-Stripes are looking to carry the momentum they built in the second half last weekend into this match against a tough Western Conference opponent. Atlanta secured the 4-3 victory against NYCFC last Saturday after scoring three times in the second half. Dallas is carrying some momentum of their own into this one with two consecutive victories. They are also undefeated on the road in three matches so far this year, a trend that Atlanta hopes to break this weekend. Let’s take a look at the Tools to the Match presented by Home Depot against FC Dallas.
Turn defensive pressure into attacking opportunities
One of the areas where Atlanta United has room for improvement so far this season is its defensive pressure. Opposing teams have found success in keeping the ball away from the 5-Stripes and controlling possession for periods of play. Atlanta has been trying to close down spaces for the opposition, but it needs to do a better job as a team to press and turnover other teams higher up the pitch. If they can create attacking opportunities off high pressure in the opposing half, they will put themselves in better scoring positions. They have seen it play out in their own defensive third, now they need to turn the tables and create those easy scoring chances in their attacking third against a stingy Dallas defense.
Interrupt Dallas’ attacking flow and limit set pieces
FC Dallas has been solid through the first six matches this season. New head coach Eric Quill has led his team to three victories and one draw in the first six matches. The offseason acquisition of Lucho Acosta has given this Dallas team a boost in the attack. The Argentine midfielder, who has been a thorn in Atlanta’s side since 2017, has netted three goals already this campaign. His strike partner, Petar Musa, has scored two goals and added three assists.
Atlanta’s defense, which has to eliminate its own mistakes first, needs to be aware and in touch with Acosta and Musa at all times. Allowing those two players time and space in and around the box will cause problems for Atlanta’s defense. Eight of Dallas’ nine goals have come from inside the box this season.
Unleash full attacking potential
Last week’s second half showcased just how dangerous Atlanta’s attack can be. When the team started building momentum, NYCFC had no answer as the 5-Stripes scored three unanswered goals in the second half to come back for the 4-3 win. That attacking potential needs to be on display from the opening minute this weekend against FC Dallas. Last week, all three designated players scored in the same game for the first time. Latte Lath has already five goals in six games, proving to be one of the top strikers in MLS this season. If Atlanta can create opportunities for him and for the other designated players, it will secure three points on Saturday night.
