After beating Portland Timbers (1:0), Atlanta ended a four-match winless run and still hope to make the play-offs, sitting seven points behind the wild-card places. New York City FC are 10th and, after losing to New York Red Bulls (0:1), have dropped out of the qualification places.
Atlanta United
Gerardo Martino's side are having a difficult season, but recent results offer a glimmer of hope. The win over Portland Timbers (1:0) was only their third clean sheet of the season, with goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos playing a key role by making three saves. Aleksei Miranchuk scored his sixth goal of the season to end a long drought, and this could be a positive sign for Atlanta's attack. Atlanta's home record leaves much to be desired — they have collected only 13 points from 12 matches, with a goal difference of -4.
New York City FC
Pigeons come into the match after a painful 0:1 derby defeat to New York Red Bulls, in which they had 61% possession but still failed to create dangerous chances. Pascal Jansen's side have won only once in their last nine matches, which points to a serious crisis of form. However, New York City FC retain an advantage in quality and experience: Pigeons have lost only once in their previous 12 head-to-head meetings. The visitors will have to push forward, as dropping points could end their play-off hopes.
Atlanta United vs New York City FC Prediction
Although Atlanta improved in their recent match against Portland Timbers, they look noticeably weaker at home. New York City FC have virtually dominated their head-to-head meetings with Atlanta. Therefore, rather than backing either side for an outright win, we will take the visitors' double chance.
