Atlanta United vs CF Montréal: Road Challenge with Playoff Implications
Atlanta United is back on the road, heading north to Stade Saputo for a pivotal MLS showdown against CF Montréal. The Five Stripes already have a win against Montréal this season, a thrilling 3-2 victory at home back in February, and will look to complete the season sweep this Saturday night.
This isn’t unfamiliar ground. Atlanta United last played at Stade Saputo in the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, where a dramatic 2-2 draw led to a 5-4 win on penalties. Brooks Lennon and Stian Gregersen, both in tonight’s Starting XI, scored in that memorable playoff clash.
Relive Atlanta United’s thrilling Leagues Cup win vs Atlas FC →
New Signings, Familiar Faces in the Starting XI
Atlanta United rolls out a lineup blending veteran experience with fresh legs. Brad Guzan returns in goal, and Enea Mihaj makes his first MLS regular season start in central defense. The Albanian center back earned his stripes in the Leagues Cup match vs Pumas and now gets his shot in league play.
Miguel Almirón, who assisted in Atlanta’s February win over Montréal, captains the side tonight. He’s joined by Emmanuel Latte Lath, who scored twice in that earlier fixture, and Saba Lobjanidze, who recently scored his first goal of the 2025 season from a stunning free kick.
On the bench, Steven Alzate and Juan Berrocal make the matchday squad for the first time. Alzate, a Colombian international midfielder, just cleared visa approval and is expected to make his debut. Cayman Togashi, who scored a brilliant header vs Atlas, is also available as an attacking option.
What to Watch: Key Storylines
- Enea Mihaj’s League Debut – Can the new center back hold the line against Montréal’s attack?
- Latte Lath and Almirón Duo – Both have struggled recently but will look to reignite their early-season form.
- Fresh Legs Off the Bench – Players like Luke Brennan, Nyk Sessock, and Togashi could make big impacts late.
- Steven Alzate’s Role – Will he debut, and how will he fit alongside Slisz and Muyumba in midfield?
Check out Steven Alzate’s signing announcement →
Full Starting XI vs CF Montréal
GK: Brad Guzan
DEF: Ronald Hernández, Stian Gregersen, Enea Mihaj, Brooks Lennon
MID: Bartosz Slisz, Tristan Muyumba, Alexey Miranchuk
FWD: Saba Lobjanidze, Miguel Almirón (c), Emmanuel Latte Lath
Reserves: Jayden Hibbert, Leo Afonso, Steven Alzate, Juan Berrocal, Luke Brennan, Nyk Sessock, Will Reilly, Cayman Togashi, Derrick Williams
More on the youth movement at ATL UTD →
What This Means for Atlanta United
This match is more than just a rematch. It’s a chance for:
- Redemption and Rhythm: Almirón and Latte Lath need confidence-building performances.
- Depth Showcase: Mihaj, Alzate, Togashi, and Sessock all represent Atlanta’s evolving bench strength.
- Playoff Push: A road win keeps the Five Stripes in firm contention for a postseason spot.
“Every opportunity is a big opportunity,” said Will Reilly earlier this week. Expect energy from the entire squad.
Next Steps for Fans
- Watch: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. ET on MLS Season Pass
- Follow Along: Live coverage and updates on AtlantaSoccer.News
- Join the Discussion: Use #ATLUTD and #FiveStripes to cheer on the team and interact with fellow fans.
Your Turn: Which new player are you most excited to see make an impact tonight? Drop your thoughts below or tag us on social with #ATLUTD!
