Last week, Atlanta United achieved one of its season’s goals by qualifying for the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League. For those new to club soccer in the Western Hemisphere, this a great honor and difficult challenge for next season. Much like the popular UEFA Champions League in Europe, qualifying clubs will have to navigate a tournament against the top teams from other leagues, while simultaneously vying for their domestic championship. Atlanta United now has the difficult task of fielding competitive teams for the CCL, while still fighting weekly for the Supporter’s Shield and MLS Cup.
Toronto FC won the MLS Cup and finished the 2017 season with the most points in MLS history.