Atlanta United Faces Orlando City SC in Eastern Conference Semifinals

 

Atlanta United is set to clash with Orlando City SC in the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs on Sunday, November 26, at Inter&Co Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, with live coverage available on the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. Fans can also tune into 92.9 The Game and La Mejor for radio commentary.

This highly anticipated matchup marks the first-ever postseason meeting between Atlanta and Orlando. Historically, Atlanta has dominated the series, holding a 10-4-7 all-time record against Orlando in regular-season play, including a 6-2-3 record on the road. Atlanta claimed victory in both 2024 regular-season encounters, capped by a 2-1 Decision Day win at Inter&Co Stadium.

Atlanta United’s Playoff Momentum

Sunday’s contest will be Atlanta United’s 18th MLS postseason match. The club holds a 9-6-2 all-time playoff record, including an impressive 7-1-1 record at home and a challenging 2-5-1 record on the road.

Atlanta advanced to the semifinals after defeating Inter Miami CF in a thrilling Round One, Best-of-3 series. Despite Miami’s 34-point advantage in the regular season—a record postseason gap in which the lower seed advanced—Atlanta showcased resilience and determination. The decisive Game 3, held at Chase Stadium on November 9, ended in a 3-2 Atlanta victory.

Jamal Thiaré emerged as a key player, scoring twice to become the second player in club history to record a playoff brace. Bartosz Slisz added the game-winning goal, marking his first career playoff goal and second of the season.

Key Players to Watch

Pedro Amador has been a standout performer for Atlanta, contributing his eighth assist of the season in Game 3, bringing his postseason tally to four. Remarkably, Amador has recorded an assist in five consecutive matches, making him only the second player in MLS history to start his playoff career with assists in four straight games. He currently leads all players in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs with four assists.

Veteran goalkeeper and captain Brad Guzan has been equally crucial, leading all playoff goalkeepers with 23 saves. In Game 3 against Miami, Guzan set a club playoff record with nine saves, surpassing his previous high of eight from Game 1. Guzan has been a constant presence for Atlanta, starting all 17 of the club’s playoff matches in its history.

Looking Ahead

Atlanta enters the semifinal with confidence, having demonstrated its ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches. Facing a formidable Orlando City team in their home stadium, Atlanta will rely on its key players and postseason experience to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.

With history, momentum, and a fierce rivalry on the line, Sunday’s matchup promises to be a thrilling chapter in Atlanta United’s playoff journey. Fans won’t want to miss this pivotal showdown as the Five Stripes aim to continue their pursuit of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup.