New York Red Bulls vs. Atlanta United - prediction, team news, lineups

Preview

The New York Red Bulls host Atlanta United at Red Bull Arena in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs on Sunday, October 23. The Red Bulls advanced to the semifinals after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over FC Cincinnati in the first round of the playoffs. Lewis Morgan scored the winning goal in the 77th minute to send the Red Bulls through to the next round. Atlanta United also advanced to the semifinals with a 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union in the first round of the playoffs. Thiago Almada scored the winning goal in the 85th minute to send Atlanta United through to the next round. The Red Bulls and Atlanta United have met twice in the regular season this year, with each team winning one game. The Red Bulls won the first meeting 2-1 in April, while Atlanta United won the second meeting 3-1 in August. The Red Bulls are favored to win the match at home, but Atlanta United is a dangerous team capable of beating anyone on any given day. The match is expected to be a close and exciting affair.

Team news

The Red Bulls are without injured defender Aaron Long, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. Midfielder Dru Yearwood is also out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. Atlanta United is without injured defender Miles Robinson, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. Midfielder Ozzie Alonso is also out for the season with a torn ACL.

Lineups

New York Red Bulls: Coronel; Edwards, Nealis, Reyes, Tolkin; Amaya, Morgan, Yearwood, Luquinhas; Klimala, Wright Atlanta United: Guzan; Lennon, Franco, Walkes, Bello; Sosa, Almada, Araujo; Gutman, Martinez, Vazquez

Prediction

The Red Bulls are the slight favorites to win the match at home, but Atlanta United is a dangerous team and could pull off the upset. The match is expected to be close and exciting, with both teams having chances to win. Predicted score: New York Red Bulls 2, Atlanta United 1