The Daily Dirt, March 3: Red Bulls out of CCL

Atlanta United will be getting a tired, out of sorts New York Red Bulls squad in their opener. Last night, the Red Bulls crashed out of the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals after a 3-1 aggregate loss to the Vancouver Whitecaps. At BC Place, New York struggled to generate sustained offense and looked vulnerable on the counter most of the night.

Jesse Marsch has had his squad shift to a 4-2-2-2 formation that is not functioning at its full capabilities yet. Last year, he tried it to start the season before reverting to his tried and true 4-2-3-1 and finding success. Will the same happen in 2017?

Gonzalo Veron was forced out of last night’s game early with an injury. Add in tired legs and a 5+ hour flight today and it would not be a massive surprise to see quite a few new faces in the Red Bulls’ starting eleven.

If you watched last night, let us know what you think. What can Atlanta do to win on Sunday? Let us know in the comments...

Domestic

Minnesota United becoming entrenched in their community (Star Tribune)

Orlando City will have a different feel now that they are in their own stadium (Orlando Sentinel)

Steve Birnbaum named captain at DC United (Washington Post)

New England’s Juan Agudelo is the player to watch this season (MLS)

Orange County SC to play in a new venue in 2017 (Angels on Parade)

International

A look at Xolos from across the border (San Diego Union Tribune)