Mercedes-Benz open to full capacity for MLS playoff game

Atlanta United will have a chance to break an attendance record for the second time in five days because the upper deck of Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be open for the team’s MLS playoff game against Columbus on Thursday. The game will kick off at 7 p.m. and be televised on ESPN2.

The Five Stripes broke their own MLS attendance record in Sunday's 2-2 draw with Toronto with 71,874 tickets sold.

A team spokesman said they are expecting a “full house” on Thursday. An official total for capacity for soccer in the $1.5 billion stadium hasn’t been announced.

Atlanta United is 5-1-2 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium this season.

“We’re going to be ready and we know the fans are going to be ready,” goalkeeper Brad Guzan said. “We know they are going to create an absolute unbelievable atmosphere for us and for when Columbus (Crew) comes for whatever day the game is. It’s not going to be an easy place for them. It’s going to be hard and we’re going to be 100 percent ready.”

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