WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: High anticipation ahead of Atlanta United playoff game

The first year in MLS for Atlanta United has been one for the ages. The team has provided fans with plenty of exciting soccer over the regular season, leading to a spot in the Audi 2017 MLS Cup. After a 2-2 tie during Sunday's matchup against Toronto FC, the Five Stripes solidified themselves at fourth in the Eastern Conference. This Thursday, Atlanta will host the fifth place Columbus Crew in their MLS Cup Playoffs debut at Mercedes Benz Stadium.

Haris Kruskic predicts how the starting lineup for Atlanta United may look this Thursday.

Each team's outlook coming into the playoffs is defined by MLS writer Sam Stejkal.

According to Dylan Butler of MLS, the Columbus Crew are determinedand wont be intimidated by the powerful Atlanta United team.

AJCs Doug Roberson claims that Atlanta doesnt seem too afraid of the Crew either, but still acknowledges that any team with that much talent is always a challenge.

Jeff Carlisle from ESPN FC talks about Uniteds fit in Atlantaand how they have taken over the city.

Jim Reineking from USA Today breaks downeach MLS teams chances at winning the MLS Cup.

Making the playoffs during their opening season in MLS has created an unparalleled experience for the Atlanta United fan base. The exciting regular season has United fans everywhere wondering just how far the first-year team can go. If Atlanta is able to defeat the Crew, theyll be one step closer to becoming the second expansion team in MLS history to win the Cup during their first year in the league.