Match Preview: Atlanta United travels to New Jersey for conference game against New York Red Bulls

Atlanta United finished with a point from their two home games against Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF. Despite the results, they can carry some momentum into their match against New York. Atlanta showed fighting spirit in the match against Miami, overcoming two deficits to come away with a 2-2 draw. The 5 Stripes' two summer signings, Alexey Miranchuk and Pedro Amador, both shone in the match against Miami and continue to adjust to the MLS game. Atlanta is in 11th place.^th in the Eastern Conference, but are only one point behind Philadelphia Union, which is in ninth place with 33 points.

The New York Red Bulls started the season strong, picking up points during several winning streaks. However, there has been a slight dip in performance recently; the New York Red Bulls have not won since MLS returned after the Leagues Cup break. Their recent loss to Chicago Fire extended their winless streak to four games. New York now sits fifth in the Eastern Conference with 43 points.

Atlanta United has a 2-10-4 record against the New York Red Bulls. One of those 10 wins for New York came the last time the two clubs met. The New York Red Bulls scored four unanswered goals to secure the win.

Saba Lobjanidze (Atlanta United) – A consistent difference maker for the 5-Stripes this season has been Saba Lobjanidze. His speed, tenacity on the ball and ability to create plays are always on full display. He scored his last of seven goals this season on Wednesday against Miami. New face Pedro Amador delivered a dangerous ball that Lobjanidze headed in to keep Atlanta in the game.

Lewis Morgan (New York Red Bulls) – The Scottish midfielder leads New York with 12 goals this season. Morgan is in his third season with the Red Bulls, where he has made 61 MLS appearances and scored 26 MLS goals, which ranks eighth in franchise history. His first MLS goal came in 2020 against Atlanta United while playing for Inter Miami.