Atlanta United (4-1-0) will try to make it six wins in a row this week in the premier match of the MLS weekend, hosting NYCFC (5-0-1) in a clash between the top two teams in the Supporters’ Shield race this year. The Five Stripes come in full of confidence, and showed in last week’s 5-0 demolition of LAFC that they can take down anyone on their home field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. But they face what is sure to be their stiffest test of the season so far against NYCFC. Here’s what fans of the red, black and gold should look for in their opponents this weekend.

Paraguayan Counterpart

After Andrea Pirlo’s departure this offseason, all eyes were on NYCFC’s next move. Would they go back into the market for another aging legend or use a DP spot on a younger prospect? They answered that question loud and clear, bringing in 20-year-old Paraguayan winger Jesus Medina to replace the recently-departed Jack Harrison on the right wing. The lightning-quick lefty has responded to the pressure of a new league, leading his team with five assists so far this season, and adding a goal to that tally as well. The shifty attacker has tidy dribbling skills and pace to burn, and will look to cut in from the right wing onto his skillful left foot all match long.

Returning reinforcements

Despite NYCFC’s early-season success, much of their starting lineup this weekend still remains up in the air due to the number of players making their return from injury. Headlining that list is 2016 MLS MVP David Villa, the heart and soul of the team since it began a few years ago, who made his way back into the lineup in their midweek match against Real Salt Lake. Joining him in their return was Alex Ring, one of the premier defensive midfielders in the league, as well as consistent 2017 starters Rodney Wallace and Ronald Matarrita. It gives head coach Patrick Vieira a selection headache as he tries to reintegrate some of his most consistent performers without breaking up the chemistry that’s been successful for NYCFC so far this year.

Venezuelan Anchor

If Miguel Almirón has an international counterpart in the attack with Medina, Josef Martinez knows NYCFC’s midfield anchor well from his Venezuelan roots as well. 20-year-old Yangel Herrera is strong and aggressive enough to play as a pure defensive midfielder, but also has the technique to push slightly further up the field as well. His versatility landed him at #6 in last year’s MLS 24 under 24 rankings. The return of Alex Ring leaves a question about where he will start the match, but wherever he ends up, Atlanta United’s midfield will have to keep the ball moving to avoid letting the tenacious midfielder overpower the center of the field.

Follow along:

The match is set to kick off at 6 p.m. EST from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Click here for everything you need to know to tune in, or, act now to get the last remaining tickets here.