Atlanta United to play in 2017 Carolina Challenge Cup

Not much is known about Atlanta United’s 2017 schedule. In fact, the only hint we have so far is that it will be released sometime in January. However, one small piece of the puzzle is beginning to come together.

The Charleston Battery have announced that Atlanta United will be one of four clubs to participate in the 2017 Carolina Challenge Cup preseason tournament beginning in the middle of February.

Atlanta will be joined by Columbus Crew SC, Seattle Sounders, and the hosting Charleston Battery to make up the four-club field.

“We’re very excited to participate in next year’s Carolina Challenge Cup,” said Atlanta United President Darren Eales. “As we prepare for our inaugural season, it was vitally important for us to schedule high-caliber competition before we enter the MLS Regular Season. It was also equally important for us to have the opportunity to extend our already established fan base deeper into the Southeast region.”

Atlanta will kick off the tournament vs. Seattle on February 18th (7:00 p.m.), play Columbus on February 22nd (5:00 p.m.), and conclude it against Charleston on February 25th (7:00 p.m.).

This marks the return of the traditional preseason tournament after the 2016 edition was cancelled for the first time in 12 years due to two MLS teams having a scheduling conflict with the CONCACAF Champions League. When the Battery announced in January that they were not holding the tournament, it was revealed that they were already in negotiations with participants for the 2017 edition.

Soon after, Atlanta United named the Battery as their USL affiliate on a one-year agreement. So, it’s not too surprising that they’d be involved in this tournament.

The CCC utilizes a round robin format. Three group matches are played, the club atop the proverbial group are crowned champion at the end. The final round of matches typically occur right before the MLS season kicks off, thus giving Atlanta United optimal competition to prepare for the upcoming campaign.

Single-game tickets start at $30 and series passes start at $60. Special rates for groups of 15 or more are available. To purchase on November 25th, visit charlestonbattery.com. Tickets will be available for purchase over the phone starting Monday, November 28th by calling the Charleston Battery box office, 843-971-4625.