Atlanta United kicked off their preseason with a convincing 4-0 win over Chattanooga FC last weekend, but now it’s time to see what they can do against teams are their own level. They begin the 2017 Carolina Challenge Cup against Columbus Crew SC today in Charleston in what should be a very good measuring stick of just how well this fledgling squad has gelled together in a short amount of time.
It was a rough year for the Crew as the finished next-to-last in the East, acquiring just 36 points. However, that doesn’t mean they are a pushover. They have some very good players such as Ethan Finlay, Federico Higuain, and leading goal-getter Ola Kamara who will be a big test for the Atlanta United backline to contend with. The Crew’s big offseason acquisition was Ghana national team defender Jonathan Mensah. It’ll be interesting to see how he does against Atlanta’s high octane attack.
Can the Five Stripes (Yes, I’m making this a thing. What of it?) adapt to an MLS-level opponent and continue to implement Tata Martino’s style with effective results? This will be a very good test all-around for the club. Let’s do it.
Pre-match Reading: 3 things to watch for, Parkhurst named captain, 3 questions about the Crew
Atlanta United Lineup:
Today's Starting XI for #ATLUTD pic.twitter.com/EpKTrHhg1e
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) February 18, 2017
Columbus Crew SC Lineup:
Here's tonight's #CrewSC Starting XI for #ATLvCLB in the #CCC17!
— Columbus Crew SC (@ColumbusCrewSC) February 18, 2017
WATCH: https://t.co/srZfJfmoJV#Preseason pic.twitter.com/9tITxijGkR
How to Watch
Kickoff Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
Venue: MUSC Health Stadium, Charleston, SC
Available TV: N/A
Available Streaming: atlutd.com, charlestonbattery.com
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