Atlanta United’s starting 11 vs. New England in MLS playoffs

12/8/18 - Atlanta - The MLS Cup, the championship game of Major League Soccer, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.   CURTIS COMPTON / CCOMPTON@AJC.COM

Credit: Curtis Compton

Credit: Curtis Compton

12/8/18 - Atlanta - The MLS Cup, the championship game of Major League Soccer, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. CURTIS COMPTON / CCOMPTON@AJC.COM

Atlanta United’s starting 11 for Saturday’s MLS playoff game against New England at Mercedes-Benz Stadium:

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who tied for the league lead in clean sheets (14).

Centerback Franco Escobar, who must do a better job against Cristian Penilla than in the first half of the previous game.

Centerback Michael Parkhurst, who steps in for the injured Miles Robinson.

Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who led the team in duels won this season.

Right wingback Julian Gressel, who led the team in chances created (71).

Left wingback Justin Meram, who must focus on defense first.

Defensive midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, who is making his 409th start in MLS (regular season and playoffs combined).

Defensive midfielder Darlington Nagbe, who led the team in passing accuracy (92.6).

Midfielder Emerson Hyndman, who has scored goals in important games this season.

Striker Ezequiel Barco, who hasn’t scored since May 5.

Striker Josef Martinez, who led Atlanta United with 27 goals.

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