Atlanta United vs. Inter Miami: Breaking Down the Lineups

Introduction

The highly anticipated clash between Atlanta United and Inter Miami in the 2023 MLS season promises an intriguing encounter between two formidable teams. With both sides boasting a star-studded roster, the tactical battle on the pitch will be one to watch. In this article, we delve into the lineups of both teams, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and providing insights into the key players who will shape the outcome of this pivotal match.

Atlanta United's Starting XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Brad Guzan (39)
Defenders: Brooks Lennon (26), Miles Robinson (26), Alan Franco (27), George Bello (21)
Midfielders: Santiago Sosa (24), Thiago Almada (21), Luiz Araujo (26)
Forwards: Josef Martinez (30), Giorgos Giakoumakis (29), Ronaldo Cisneros (26)

Key Players for Atlanta United

• Josef Martinez: The Venezuelan striker is one of the most prolific goalscorers in MLS history, with over 100 goals in the league. His clinical finishing and aerial prowess make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
• Thiago Almada: The Argentine playmaker is the engine of Atlanta United's attack. His exceptional vision, dribbling skills, and passing range allow him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
• Brooks Lennon: The speedy right-back is vital to Atlanta United's attacking momentum. His overlapping runs and crosses provide dangerous width on the flank.

Inter Miami's Starting XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper: Nick Marsman (32)
Defenders: DeAndre Yedlin (30), Leonardo Campana (23), Damion Lowe (30), Kieran Gibbs (33)
Midfielders: Gregore (31), Jean Mota (30)
Attacking Midfielders: Ariel Lassiter (29), Alejandro Pozuelo (31), Robbie Robinson (21)
Forward: Gonzalo Higuaín (36)

Key Players for Inter Miami

• Gonzalo Higuaín: The Argentine striker, nicknamed "Pipita," is a proven goal-scorer in Europe and internationally. His experience and technical prowess will be crucial for Inter Miami's attacking efforts.
• Alejandro Pozuelo: The Canadian attacking midfielder is a creative force with excellent vision and set-piece delivery. His ability to unlock defenses will be vital for Inter Miami's chance creation.
• Robbie Robinson: The young American winger is a rising star with exceptional speed and dribbling skills. His ability to take on defenders and create opportunities for his teammates will be key for Inter Miami's attacking success.

Tactical Matchup

The tactical matchup between Atlanta United and Inter Miami is likely to be a clash of styles. Atlanta United will look to control possession and create scoring opportunities through their short passing game and quick combinations. Inter Miami, on the other hand, will rely on their experienced forwards and counter-attacking threat to hurt Atlanta United on the break.

Atlanta United's Advantages:

• Superior possession play
• Creative midfield with Almada and Araujo
• Dangerous attacking trio of Martinez, Giakoumakis, and Cisneros

Inter Miami's Advantages:

• Experienced forwards in Higuaín and Campana
• Counter-attacking threat with Pozuelo and Robinson
• Solid defensive base with Yedlin and Lowe

Key Battles to Watch

Martinez vs. Yedlin: The battle between Atlanta United's prolific striker and Inter Miami's speedy right-back will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match. Martinez's ability to create scoring opportunities and Yedlin's defensive capabilities will be tested throughout the game.

Almada vs. Gregore: The matchup between Atlanta United's playmaker and Inter Miami's defensive midfielder will be a battle of wits and skill. Almada's vision and passing range will be countered by Gregore's physicality and defensive awareness.

Pozuelo vs. Bello: The battle between Inter Miami's attacking midfielder and Atlanta United's left-back will be a key factor in the creation of scoring chances. Pozuelo's creativity and set-piece delivery will be countered by Bello's speed and defensive contributions.

Impact of Injuries and Suspensions

Both Atlanta United and Inter Miami have several key players who are currently dealing with injuries or suspensions.

Atlanta United Injuries/Suspensions:

• Ezequiel Barco (midfielder) - Out with an ankle injury
• Caleb Wiley (defender) - Out with a hamstring injury

Inter Miami Injuries/Suspensions:

• Bryce Duke (midfielder) - Out with a knee injury
• Kieran Gibbs (defender) - Questionable with a groin injury

These injuries and suspensions may force both teams to make adjustments to their starting lineup and tactical approach.

Head-to-Head Record

Atlanta United and Inter Miami have met three times in MLS play, with Atlanta United holding a 2-1 record.

Previous Meetings:

• August 13, 2022: Atlanta United 2-1 Inter Miami
• March 13, 2022: Atlanta United 1-0 Inter Miami
• November 28, 2021: Inter Miami 1-0 Atlanta United

Broadcast Information

The match between Atlanta United and Inter Miami will be broadcast live on MLS Live and ESPN+.

Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET

Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Conclusion

The matchup between Atlanta United and Inter Miami promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair. With both teams boasting talented and experienced lineups, the outcome of the match is likely to hinge on tactical execution, key player performances, and the battles in midfield and defense. Atlanta United will look to extend their dominance in the head-to-head record, while Inter Miami will aim to upset the home team and secure a valuable away win.