Earthquakes Host Atlanta United in Early MLS Season Clash
San Jose Earthquakes face Atlanta United FC on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. The match, part of the 2026 MLS Regular Season, is scheduled for a 7:30 PM kickoff and will be broadcast on Apple TV.
Current Standings and Recent Form
Heading into the match, the San Jose Earthquakes hold a 3rd position in the Western Conference with 3 points. Atlanta United FC currently sits in 12th place in the Eastern Conference, having yet to secure any points.
Team Lineups and Key Players
Bruce Arena’s San Jose Earthquakes are expected to field a lineup including Daniel Munie and potentially Timo Werner, though Werner is currently listed as doubtful. The projected starting eleven includes Daniel, DeJuan Jones, Daniel Munie, Reid Roberts, B. Kikanovic, Beau Leroux, R. Vieira, J. Ricketts, N. Tsakiris, O. Bouda, and Timo Werner (Duv). Several players are listed as doubtful, including E. Edwards Jr. And R. Vieira.
Atlanta United, under Gerardo Martino, is anticipated to start Lucas Hoyos, Elias Baez, J. Berrocal Gonzalez, Enea Mihaj, R. Hernandez, S. Lobzhanidze, S. Alzate, Tomas Jacob, M. Almiron, E. Latte Lath, and A. Miranchuk. Atlanta has a significant list of unavailable players, including Pedro Amador, A. Fortune, Fafa Picault, D. Chong-Qui, and W. Reilly.
Recent Encounters
Historically, Atlanta United has had the upper hand in matches against San Jose. Past results include a 2-1 Atlanta win in February 2023, a 3-1 victory in September 2019, a 3-4 loss in September 2018, and a 4-2 defeat in July 2017.
MLS Landscape in 2026
The early 2026 MLS season is shaping up to be competitive. As of February 28, 2026, Nashville SC leads the league with 3 points, followed closely by FC Cincinnati and Red Bull New York. San Jose’s strong start positions them well in the Western Conference, alongside San Diego FC, LAFC, and the Seattle Sounders FC.
Pro Tip
Preserve an eye on Timo Werner’s availability. If he’s fit to play, his presence could significantly impact San Jose’s attacking options.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Designated Players
The addition of players like Timo Werner highlights the growing importance of Designated Player rules in MLS. These rules allow teams to sign players outside of salary cap constraints, attracting international talent and raising the overall quality of play. This strategy is becoming increasingly common as MLS aims to compete on a global stage.
FAQ
When and where is the San Jose Earthquakes vs. Atlanta United FC match?
The match is on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 7:30 PM at PayPal Park in San Jose, California.
Where can I watch the game?
The game will be broadcast on Apple TV.
Who is doubtful for San Jose Earthquakes?
E. Edwards Jr., R. Vieira, and Timo Werner are listed as doubtful for San Jose.
Who are the current leaders in the MLS Western Conference?
Nashville SC currently leads the Western Conference with 3 points.
What is the historical record between San Jose and Atlanta?
Atlanta United has generally had the upper hand in past encounters.
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