The stakes have never been higher for a “I-85 Derby.” For the first time in their storied rivalry, Atlanta United and Charlotte FC will square off in a knockout setting, battling for a spot in the U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinals.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. ET at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex. While the atmosphere in the Queen City will be hostile, the 5-Stripes arrive with a major tactical boost: the return of the “motor” himself, Tomás Jacob.
The Return of the Motor
After missing the last two matches with a lower leg injury, Tomás Jacob returns to the starting lineup. His presence is a game-changer for Tata Martino’s system. Jacob’s elite work rate—characterized by relentless overlapping runs and high-speed defensive recoveries—will be vital in neutralizing a Charlotte side that currently sits 5th in the Eastern Conference.
Defensive & Midfield Shuffles
Martino is leaning into his squad depth to navigate the “seven games in three weeks” gauntlet:
- The Backline: Jacob is joined by Juan Berrocal, Elías Báez, and a returning Enea Mihaj, who was rested during the weekend victory in Toronto. Jayden Hibbert gets the nod in goal for this cup fixture.
- The Engine Room: The midfield sees Will Reilly and Matías Galarza return to the XI alongside Jay Fortune. Fortune is the “iron man” of the group, serving as the only midfielder to start both today and in Saturday’s win at BMO Field.
The Attack: Continuity & Captaincy
The front three features a blend of experience and Homegrown hunger:
- Captain Miranchuk: Alexey Miranchuk dons the armband for the fifth consecutive match. Fresh off scoring a team-high 5th goal of the season in Toronto, he’ll operate as a creative “false nine.”
- Cup Specialists: Fafa Picault and Luke Brennan flank the captain. Both were instrumental in the Round of 32 win over Chattanooga—Picault finding the net and Brennan providing a clinical assist.
Starting XI: Atlanta United at Charlotte FC
Formation: 4-3-3
- GK: Jayden Hibbert
- DEF: Tomás Jacob, Juan Berrocal, Enea Mihaj, Elías Báez
- MID: Will Reilly, Jay Fortune, Matías Galarza
- FWD: Luke Brennan, Fafa Picault, Alexey Miranchuk (C)
Reserves: Lucas Hoyos, Pedro Amador, Ronald Hernández, Cooper Sanchez, Tristan Muyumba, Emmanuel Latte Lath, Saba Lobjanidze.
Roster Notes & Milestones
- First Cup Meeting: Despite years of MLS battles, this is the first time these rivals have met in a cup competition.
- Miranchuk’s Milestone: The captain has now led the side for five straight games following his 50th club appearance last week.
- Almirón Watch: While Miguel Almirón remains out with knee irritation, Tata Martino has signaled that Saturday’s home match against CF Montréal is the target for his return.
Related Coverage from AtlantaSoccer.news
- The Jacob Effect: How the Fullback’s Return Changes Atlanta’s Transition Game
- Open Cup Rivalry: Why This Match is the Most Important “I-85 Derby” to Date
- Road Warriors: Can Atlanta Carry the Toronto Momentum into North Carolina?
ASN Fan Voice: Knockout football against Charlotte—it doesn’t get much bigger than this! Are you excited to see Tomás Jacob back in the XI, or do you think the rotated midfield will be the key to victory tonight? Tell us your score predictions below! #ATLUTD #UniteAndConquer #USOC2026 #OpenCup #CharlotteFC #TomásJacob #Miranchuk #TheA #SoccerNews #ASN
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.