It’s not time for Atlanta United to push the panic button just yet. The reigning MLS Cup champions are not off to a good start, but it’s been tough to transition from head coach Tata Martino to Frank de Boer, and the loss of Miguel Almiron has been a big one.
That time is drawing near though. If there aren’t significant signs of improvement in the coming weeks, the growing calls to replace de Boer might reach a crescendo and lead to his ouster. A win over FC Dallas this week would put a damper on those protestations for now.
Don't miss the Major League Soccer action from Mercedes-Benz Arena in Atlanta at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 20, 2019. Catch every moment of the match live on ESPN.
MLS Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Atlanta United -146
FC Dallas +345
Draw +284
Over/Under 2.5 and 3
Odds Analysis
FC Dallas are off to a pretty good start. Dallas are 4-1-2 through their first seven matches, and that has them in fifth place in the Western Conference. They are undefeated at home with wins over the Los Angeles Galaxy, Portland Timbers, and Colorado Rapids. However, they have looked more beatable on the road with losses to the Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union. Dallas did pick up a road victory against Real Salt Lake three weeks ago, but that was greatly aided by RSL’s Damir Kreilach picking up a red card in the 17th minute.
Atlanta’s inability to score has been the story so far this season. The Five Stripes scored just two goals in their first four matches, getting off to a rocky 0-2-2 start even though two of those games were at home. They finally picked up a win last week, but it’s hard to say they turned a corner as they beat arguably the worst team in the East in the New England Revolution. Ezequiel Barco netted a brace in the match for Atlanta.
Key Absences
Cristian Colman tore his ACL in October of last year, and he is still recovering. FC Dallas are hoping that he will be available to return to the pitch soon, but they are also being cautious with one of their stars. He is a designated player, and they don’t want to rush him back too early. Forwards Francis Atuahene and Dom Badji will also be sidelined for this match due to injury, while fellow designated player Bryan Acosta is out with an ankle sprain.
Defenders George Bello and Mikey Ambrose will miss this match for Atlanta, with Ambrose out until May with a meniscus injury. Midfielder Kevin Kratz has been ruled out due to a calf injury, while forward Brandon Vazquez is out because of a knee injury.
Player to Watch
Josef Martinez smashed the single season goals record in 2018, but Atlanta United’s star forward has struggled to find the back of the net this year. Martinez has just one goal in five matches, and he has had a hard time fitting into de Boer’s system where forwards are seen as set-up men too. He was sharp against the Revolution last week, but he also missed a number of quality chances, and he looks frustrated on the pitch.
Prop Bet of the Week – Under 2.5 Goals +111
I’m not convinced that Atlanta are back, so I’m going to take the alternate under here. That would have cashed in all five of the Five Stripes’ games so far this season, and I think it will once more. They have been solid in defense, and FC Dallas will be without two of their top playmakers.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
Look for one of Atlanta’s talented midfielders to create a goal in a low-scoring win for the hosts.
Major League Soccer Odds: Atlanta United 1, FC Dallas 0
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