The Teams
Atlanta United
The Five Stripes are making their debut in the MLS Cup, but they are no stranger to big stages. They've made playoff appearances every year since they were founded. They are the favorites, but Portland is dangerous on the road.
Players to watch
- Josef Martinez -- The 24-year-old has been awarded both MLS Player of the Month and MLS Player of the Week two times this year. Martinez is also a member of the Venezuela Men’s National Team in which he has been capped 42 times.
- Miguel Almirón -- The 24-year-old had an impressive first season, recording nine goals and 14 assists. He was named the 2017 MLS Newcomer of the Year and was a finalist for 2017 Most Valuable Player.
- Ezequiel Barco --The Argentine youth star, despite an early-season injury, has showcased his talent and has helped lead the team to an Eastern Conference Championship.
- Michael Parkhurst -- The six-time MLS All-Star selection is one of the most celebrated defenders in MLS. Parkhurst has played for the U.S. Men’s National Team, and he was the first team captain for Atlanta United.
Portland Timbers
The Portland Timbers will play in yet another MLS Cup when they take the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Portland's five road playoff victories since 2013 are the most by any MLS team in that time span. The Timbers also have seven players on their roster who played in their 2015 MLS Cup victory over the Columbus Crew.
Players to watch
- Diego Valer -- One of the best attacking midfielders in MLS pulls off moments of sublime skill and creates goals. He'll be the focus of Atlanta United's defensive efforts, but the 2017 league MVP should be up to the task.
- Sebastian Blanco -- is an Argentine footballer. He currently plays as a midfielder and is one of the highest paid players on the team, deservedly so as he has made a big impact on the Timbers' success.
- Fanendo Adi -- At 6 feet 4 inches with deadly accuracy, Adi is a true force. Adi emerged as a goal-scoring force for the Timbers, netting 54 goals over five MLS seasons (126 appearances), including back-to-back 16 goal seasons. He was also a fixture of the team that won MLS Cup 2015.
- Larrys Mabiala -- A strong defender who has made his presence known, Mabiala started 13 of the final 14 regular season matches after arriving during the second half of 2017. Mabiala is recovering from an ankle injury that he sustained in the first leg of the Western Conference Championship but is expected to play.
(Photo courtesy of Atlanta United)
The Venue
Located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a world-class stadium ready for another nationally televised sporting event. With "Fan First" pricing and an unbeatable match-day experience, America's newest stadium is the best place to watch Atlanta United FC take on the Portland Timbers. Also, check out nearby restaurants and bars for pre- and post-game food and drinks.
(Gene Phillips, AtlantaPhotos.com)
Tickets
Fans can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster here.
Getting There
We highly encourage fans to ride MARTA to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Transit Station for the most direct access to the stadium.
Ride share -- Utilizing a ride share or taxi will provide a convenient and affordable way to get you to and from the stadium.
Parking -- Parking is limited but there are several lots available around the stadium.
Tailgates, Watch Parties and After Parties
For a daily updated list on pre- and post-game parties as well as where to watch the game, click here.
(Image courtesy of Atlanta United)
Courtney Bigum is a marketing professional and Atlanta local always looking for new and exciting ways to explore the city. There is never a weekend an adventure doesn't find her. TJ Jackson is a digital marketing specialist for Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.
