Atlanta United 2 vs Belize National Team: A Unique Friendly With Global Flair
Mark your calendars, 5-Stripes fans—Atlanta United 2 is going international.
In a special event hosted at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, ATL UTD 2 will face the Belize National Team on Saturday, September 6 at 10 a.m. ET. While the match will be closed to the public, fans can stream it live online at www.atlutd.com/live
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Presented in partnership with the Belize Tourism Board, an official club sponsor, this fixture promises to be more than just a tune-up—it’s a statement of Atlanta’s growing global soccer footprint.
Meet the Opponent: The Unbelizeables
Belize, known affectionately as “The Unbelizeables”, has enjoyed a resurgence under Head Coach Charlie Slusher, who took over in July 2024. Since then, the Jaguars have amassed a solid 5-4-1 record, including a standout undefeated run in 2024 across Concacaf Nations League and Gold Cup Qualifying fixtures.
The squad features seasoned leaders like goalkeeper and captain Woodrow West, who ranks fifth all-time in appearances for the nation with 46 caps. Forward Carlos Bernárdez and midfielder Jordy Polanco bring firepower, having combined for 15 international goals and ranking among Belize’s top goal scorers.
This match gives Belize valuable preparation ahead of further 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers while offering Atlanta United 2 a chance to test their mettle against a full international squad.
What This Means for ATL UTD 2
While Atlanta United 2 (7-8-8, 31 points) is currently on pause from MLS NEXT Pro action during the FIFA international break, this match gives the squad a valuable opportunity to stay sharp and experiment with tactics in a high-stakes environment.
It’s also a rare opportunity for Academy prospects and younger players to gain experience against senior national team competition—valuable minutes that can fast-track development.
Many Atlanta fans will remember rising star Gabriel Wesseh, recently named MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of the Month. Expect him, and several other Academy products, to get meaningful minutes in this friendly.
The team will return to league action on Saturday, Sept. 13, traveling to face Carolina Core FC at Truist Point Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET, stream on MLSNEXTPro.com
Why Atlanta Soccer Fans Should Tune In
This international matchup is more than just a preseason-style friendly—it’s a cross-cultural celebration of soccer and a preview of potential future stars. For local fans, it’s a great way to see how Atlanta’s youth development system stacks up against international competition.
It also speaks volumes about Atlanta United’s ambition to grow the game locally and globally. Hosting a FIFA-affiliated national team at their training ground elevates ATL UTD 2’s reputation and gives players an added layer of exposure.
How to Watch
Watch Live: www.atlutd.com/live
Kickoff: Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. ET
Location: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground (Closed to the Public)
Join the Conversation:
Will ATL UTD 2 hold strong against the Unbelizeables? Who are you excited to watch? Share your thoughts using #ATLUTD2 or tag us on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram @AtlantaSoccerNews.
