Atlanta United

Predicting Atlanta United’s starting 11 vs. NYCFC

July 21, 2019 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez heads the ball past a D.C. United defender during a 2-0 victory in their soccer match on Sunday, July 21, 2019, in Atlanta.   Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com
July 21, 2019 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez heads the ball past a D.C. United defender during a 2-0 victory in their soccer match on Sunday, July 21, 2019, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com
Sept 25, 2019

Doug Roberson of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution predicts Atlanta United's starting 11 for Wednesday's MLS game against NYCFC at Yankee Stadium.

Atlanta United trails first-place NYCFC by four points with three games remaining.

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan

Centerback Miles Robinson

Centerback Michael Parkhurst. The field is so small, Parkhurst doesn’t have to be fast over 30 yards, only 10 yards. He reads the game so well that skill is invaluable on a tiny pitch.

Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez

Defensive midfielder Eric Remedi

Defensive midfielder Darlington Nagbe

Right wingback Julian Gressel

Left wingback Justin Meram

Attacking midfielder Emerson Hyndman

Attacking midfielder Pity Martinez

Striker Brandon Vazquez. I’m picking Vazquez over Tito Villalba because Villalba’s biggest asset, his speed, is negated on the tiny pitch. There isn’t enough room to get up a head of steam, so to speak. Conversely, Vazquez size will make him an ideal target man for long balls should Atlanta United need that tactic to break NYCFC’s press, or for crosses.

About the Author

Doug Roberson covers the Atlanta United and Major League Soccer.

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