Atlanta United, FC Cincinnati set for playoff-push match

Atlanta United hosts FC Cincinnati on Oct. 10 in a consequential late-season MLS match, with both teams seeking points to stay in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Atlanta is 14th in the conference, while Cincinnati is 10th and arrives amid a poor run that includes a five-game winless stretch and a 3-1 loss to Montreal. Cincinnati coach Pat Noonan said the international break gave his team time to rebuild fitness, integrate players and address defensive shortcomings, particularly its intensity, duels and organization. Cincinnati has continued to create and score chances, but its defense has struggled, with a league-high number of penalties conceded and frequent discipline issues cited as contributors. Atlanta, coming off a 2-2 draw with New York City FC, will look to capitalize on those vulnerabilities at home.