Atlanta United host Columbus Crew in Walmart Saturday Showdown

Eastern Conference foes clash as Atlanta look to build on recent unbeaten run

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:49pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic action of a soccer match, with overlapping geometric shapes in shades of red, blue, and gold representing the players and movement on the field.The high-stakes clash between Eastern Conference rivals Atlanta United and Columbus Crew promises an intense, fast-paced battle on the pitch.Atlanta Today

Atlanta United, led by returning head coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, host the Columbus Crew in a key Eastern Conference matchup. Atlanta are aiming to build on their recent unbeaten run after a slow start to the season, with their high-priced Designated Player trio of Miguel Almirón, Emmanuel Latte Lath, and Alexey Miranchuk looking to spark the team's offense.

Why it matters

This is an important early-season clash between two Eastern Conference rivals. Atlanta United have underperformed so far this season despite having one of the league's most expensive rosters, and a win over the Crew could help them gain momentum and climb the standings. Columbus, meanwhile, will be looking to take advantage of Atlanta's slow start and pick up a valuable road result.

The details

Atlanta United are coming off a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union in their last match, with Almirón providing a hat-trick of assists and Latte Lath and Miranchuk each scoring. The Five Stripes are hoping that performance was a sign of things to come, as they look to turn around a slow start that has seen them pick up just 4 points from their first 5 games. Columbus, meanwhile, have 7 points from their first 5 matches and will be aiming to continue their solid start to the season.

  • Atlanta United and Columbus Crew will face off on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Atlanta United are coming off a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union on Matchday 4.

The players

Gerardo 'Tata' Martino

The returning head coach of Atlanta United, who previously led the club to an MLS Cup title in 2018.

Miguel Almirón

Atlanta United's club legend and Designated Player, who is preparing to represent Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Emmanuel Latte Lath

Atlanta United's club-record signing, the Ivorian striker has 1 goal and 2 assists in 5 appearances this season.

Alexey Miranchuk

The Russian international is Atlanta United's top scorer this season with 3 goals in 5 appearances.

Matías Galarza

The midfielder is on loan to Atlanta United from Argentine club River Plate and is expected to represent Paraguay at the World Cup.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build on our recent performances and capitalize on the talent we have in the squad.”

— Gerardo Martino, Head Coach, Atlanta United

“This is a big game for us against a tough Eastern Conference rival. We're looking forward to the challenge and hoping to come away with a positive result.”

— Caleb Porter, Head Coach, Columbus Crew

What’s next

The winner of this match will gain valuable ground in the Eastern Conference standings, while the loser will be left playing catch-up early in the season.

The takeaway

Atlanta United have the talent to be one of the top teams in MLS, but they must start turning that potential into consistent results. A win over the Crew would be a big step in the right direction as they look to climb the Eastern Conference table.