ATLANTA, GEORGIA—Atlanta United FC fans have reasons to smile and be optimistic as their team is set to host the CF Montreal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on May 15.
After salvaging a 1-1 draw against the home team Inter Miami CF Sunday at DRV PNK Stadium, United has reasons to play more aggressively and eked out a win against the visiting Montreal team.
The lone goal of the team against Miami courtesy of United star striker Josef Martínez is an indication that Venezuelan professional football player is back to his scoring ways after suffering from an ACL injury.
The goal scored by Martinez is his first since Feb. 25, 2020, before his season-ending injury.
Professional soccer experts said the goal ignited the fire of Martinez to stay more aggressive and always take the chance to score if ever an opportunity comes.
The experts said if Martinez will regain his scoring ways, there is no reason United will lose against Montreal.
Aside from Martinez, the long rest also allows United to play with more fire and energy against Montreal on Saturday.
It can be recalled that the United played lethargically and with a lot of errors due to weary legs and fatigue since the team has been playing eight games in slightly more than a month.
Furthermore, the experts said if Martinez, Santiago Sosa, and Emerson Hyndman will play in sync Montreal will be in trouble.
The experts added, starting goalkeeper Brad Guzan also needs to continue playing well in defense to tow his team to victory against Montreal come game-time.