Brooks Lennon confident in Atlanta United ahead of MLS Cup playoffs

Atlanta United full-back Brooks Lennon believes the Five Stripes will make some noise in the postseason, claiming 'we are ready to win in the playoffs.'

The 1-1 draw with Columbus Crew saw Lennon take up a more defensive role due to the visiting team's ability to hold on to the ball. Though he saw few chances in the final third, Lennon still put in several challenges in and around his own penalty area to limit the Crew's chances.

The 26-year-old now leads all MLS defenders in assists with 10 in 2023, and he's second on the team in that category behind none other than star midfielder Thiago Almada, who has 17 assists this season.

"No, we are not worried at all. We have a good team. We are ready to win in the playoffs. We have the team to do it home and away. So, we are not worried," he said when asked about not finishing in the top-four.

Like Pineda did last week, Lennon explained that playing excellent teams like Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati on Decision Day can only benefit Atlanta as they prepare for the playoffs.

"It’s good to play these teams now. We are playing Philadelphia, Columbus and Cincinnati back-to-back-to-back. Those are three teams that are probably going to finish in the top-four and we are going to have to play against one of them probably," he added.

"So, it’s great to see them now and it’s almost like a playoff game before the playoffs. That’s what tonight felt like. I thought they played really well, give them credit and tip your hat to Columbus. They controlled the ball very well.

"Not every game is going to be beautiful. We are not always going to have all the possession. Sometimes, you have to defend really well. I thought we did that. I think the goal we conceded was a little unlucky. Other than that, I thought we defended really well. We didn’t control the ball, but we move forward. Now we get some rest and train and prepare for Cincinnati."

The Five Stripes return to action on October 21 for their regular season final against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. With the international break taking place before the game, Pineda may opt to rest some of his players due to jet lag and wanting them to be fresh for the playoffs.

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