Sports

Atlanta United has easiest path to Supporters’ Shield

April 28, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Kevin Kratz (right) celebrates scoring his second goal of the game, both on free kicks, with Miguel Almiron for a 4-1 victory over the Montreal Impact in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, April 28, 2018, in Atlanta. Almiron also scored two goals in the game. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: ccompton@ajc.com

April 28, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Kevin Kratz (right) celebrates scoring his second goal of the game, both on free kicks, with Miguel Almiron for a 4-1 victory over the Montreal Impact in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, April 28, 2018, in Atlanta. Almiron also scored two goals in the game. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

By Doug Roberson

July 9, 2018

Atlanta United seems to have the easiest path of the contenders remaining to win this year’s Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team that finishes the season with the most points.

Not only does Atlanta United lead the league with 40 points, five more than the next closest team, it has the easiest remaining schedule compared to those of Dallas (35 points), LAFC (34), NYCFC (34), Sporting Kansas City (33) and New York Red Bulls (32).

The winner of the Supporters’ Shield receives an automatic berth into the CONCACAF Champions League, an annual tournament featuring the best teams in North America.

Here’s a look at the competition for the Supporters’ Shield:

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