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Short-handed Crew aim to boost playoff positioning at Atlanta
The Columbus Crew (12-6-10, 46 points) look to stay above the Eastern Conference playoff line when they visit Atlanta United (5-12-11, 26 points) on Saturday. Columbus has not won since July 19 but remains in seventh place, while Atlanta risks elimination if they fail to win.
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Columbus won the reverse fixture 3-1 in June, with Jacen Russell-Rose netting a brace. Atlanta coach Ronny Deila admitted that match was his side’s “worst performance of the season” — making this a chance at redemption.
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Columbus Crew Can Win If…
- Darlington Nagbe boosts midfield stability. The veteran’s return after a month out should help Columbus dictate tempo.
- Attackers replicate June’s success. Russell-Rose and Andres Herrera exposed Atlanta’s back line once already this season.
- Defense holds without Zawadzki. Losing their versatile defender to a knee injury hurts, but Nancy’s side must compensate.
“He’s strong mentally … he’s going to come back stronger,” coach Wilfried Nancy said about Sean Zawadzki’s injury setback.
Atlanta United Can Win If…
- They use urgency as fuel. Facing elimination, Atlanta must match Columbus’ intensity from the opening whistle.
- Defense stays organized. Back-to-back clean sheets in late August were positive signs in an otherwise disappointing season.
- Brooks Lennon delivers again. The defender scored Atlanta’s lone goal in the June loss — he’s been a bright spot in limited chances.
“That was our worst performance this season … we have to take learning from that and try to do it better,” coach Ronny Deila said of the last Crew meeting.
Key MLS Betting Trends
| Category | Columbus Crew | Atlanta United |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 12-6-10 (7th East) | 5-12-11 (13th East) |
| Last 10 Matches | 0-4-6 | 2-3-5 |
| Goals Per Match | 1.7 | 1.1 |
| Goals Allowed | 1.5 | 1.8 |
| Head-to-Head 2025 | Won 3-1 (June 25) | Lost 3-1 in last meeting |
The Leans
Main Pick: Columbus Crew Moneyline (+125)
Projected Final Score: Crew 2, Atlanta 1
- Moneyline Angle: Crew have the quality edge even with injuries; Atlanta is desperate but inconsistent.
- Total Goals Angle: Over 2.5 (-115) — Columbus matches often tilt high-scoring, and Atlanta must chase a result.
Get sharper breakdowns at our MLS Betting Predictions hub.
Best Bet Box
Best Bet: Columbus Crew ML (+125)
Confidence: ★★★★☆
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