Orlando City SC and Atlanta United FC will play twice in eight days to battle for soccer supremacy in the South.
437 miles of deep south land separate these two teams. Prior to Atlanta United’s 2017 MLS debut season, Orlando City’s closest geographical opposition was DC United. 850 miles along the east coast separate Orlando from our nation’s capital. A long haul for the fans and team alike.
Geographically isolated from other MLS franchises, Orlando City SC has quickly established itself as the club to watch in the state of Florida. Sell-out home matches, unforgettable team performances, and the supporters spanning the state have reinforced Orlando City’s winning mentality and the Club’s goal to give Florida soccer fans what they want: a competitive MLS team.
Atlanta United - in a similar fashion to Orlando City’s inaugural MLS season - bursted onto the scene as immediate challengers. Miguel Almiron and company pose a serious threat in attack and USMNT mainstay goalkeeper Brad Guzan has officially completed his move from England to join Atlanta United.
Time will tell, but the eight hour trip up I-75 could breed a fantastic rivalry between these two teams.
One point stands between Orlando and Atlanta in the MLS Eastern Conference standings. When the smoke clears at the end of July, we will see who has the upper hand.
Orlando City SC vs. Atlanta United FC
Orlando City Stadium
Friday, July 21 7:00PM ET
Broadcast: ESPN
Atlanta United FC vs. Orlando City SC
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Saturday, July 29 4:00PM ET
Broadcast: FOX
