Atlanta United midfielder Cooper Sanchez is determined to cement his place in the first team after making his MLS debut against the Columbus Crew.

The 17-year-old came on as a substitute in the second half of their 5-4 defeat to the Crew, which ended Atlanta's hopes of qualifying for the playoffs.

Sanchez made his first-team debut in Atlanta's Leagues Cup win over Atlas, which came just a day after he signed a homegrown deal with the club.

Atlanta face a stern test in their next match as they host San Diego FC. The visitors are currently top of the Western Conference, but lost to second-place Minnesota United last time out.

Having made his MLS debut at such a young age, Sanchez is aiming to reach greater heights with Atlanta.

"I've been here since I was 12 years old. It's a pretty big moment for me and my family to see the hard work pay off, but it's just a start," said Sanchez.

"I always played up an age group or two at times during my academy days, and that's got me ready for the physical side of the game. A big thanks to all the coaches that I've had along the way, and also my team-mates pushing me every day.

"Just signing a contract doesn't really mean a whole lot. I'm humble. I want to be a big part of this club and a big part of the first team going forward. It's just the first step."

San Diego currently have a two-point lead over Minnesota at the top of the West, but are looking to bounce back after the Loons ended their six-match unbeaten streak.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Atlanta United – Miguel Almiron

With top scorer Emmanuel Latte Lath a doubt through injury, Miguel Almiron will look to lead the Atlanta attack.

The former Newcastle United winger has scored four goals and provided seven assists this season, registering both a goal and an assist in their recent loss to Columbus.

San Diego FC – Anders Dreyer

Following his move from Anderlecht, Anders Dreyer has been in sensational form for San Diego.

The Danish international has scored 14 goals and provided 16 assists in 30 MLS games this season, with his 31 goal involvements only bettered by Lionel Messi (32 – 20 goals, 12 assists).

MATCH PREDICTION – SAN DIEGO FC WIN

San Diego have 10 wins and four losses in away matches this season, and are on a seven-match away winning streak. The last time they failed to win an MLS away game was May 29 against Seattle Sounders.

Atlanta have picked up just 18 points from a possible 45 from home games, both scoring and conceding 27 goals across those matches. It is the fifth-worst home record in the East this season.

San Diego's defeat to Minnesota saw the end of their six-match unbeaten run, but they have not lost back-to-back games since losing three consecutive matches in April.

In their last six league matches, Atlanta United have won one, drawn three and lost two. San Diego, meanwhile, have won four, drawn one and lost one in their last six.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

Atlanta United – 29.7%

Draw – 24.8%

San Diego FC – 45.5%