The MLS is Back Tournament began this week! Atlanta United is raring to go and ready for victory. The team left last Saturday morning and arrived in Florida at the Orlando venue. And Five Stripes fans were in full support as the team made the departure from Atlanta. Flags and signs were visible in the large crowd of fans. The MLS is Back Tournament is sure to give fans a taste of live sports they have been missing.
Atlanta United Safety Precautions
- On the journey to Orlando, all team members wore masks.
- COVID-19 tests were administered upon players arrival.
- MLS protocols imposed a 24-hour quarantine.
- No fans are allowed at games.
MLS is Back Tournament Guidelines
- The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will host all games in Orlando, Florida.
- Group Stage- Each Club will play 3 Competition Matches, for a total of 39 Competition Matches.
- Knockout Stage- The Knockout Stage consists of 4 rounds: the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals and the Final.
- As the host of the competition, Orlando will be placed into Group A, Position 1 .
- The Match Roster may have a maximum of 23 eligible Players for each team.
- The Match Roster includes the starting 11 Players and a maximum of 12 available substitutes
- Tied games will not go into extra time. Five penalty kicks will decide tied games.
- Several other safety precautions are in place due to COVID-19.
Atlanta United in the MLS is Back Tournament
Atlanta United will begin play this week, much to the excitement of fans! The Five Stripes play on July 11 against the New York Red Bulls. Check out the Group Stage games:
- July 11: Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls- 8:00 pm (Broadcast on FOX)
- July 16: Atlanta United vs. FC Cincinnati- 9:00 am (Broadcast on ESPN)
- July 21: Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew SC- 8:00 pm (Broadcast on TUDN)
If Atlanta makes it through the Group Stage, the team will continue on to the Knockout Stage! As 2018 MLS Cup Champions, and 2019 semi-finalists, there are high hopes for Atlanta in the tournament. Tune in this Saturday!
