Off The Woodwork

Atlanta United’s loss in San Jose wasn’t just about the scoreline. Tata Martino called the first half “lamentable” and questioned the team’s approach and courage. Jason Longshore breaks down what the numbers revealed, why buildup and hesitation unraveled the structure, and what must change before the home opener. The show zooms out to examine the modern balance between control and verticality in today’s game, then shifts to a crossover conversation with Madison Crews and Noel White on the growth of women’s sports in Atlanta as the NWSL prepares to arrive. With 100 days until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Jason looks at what preparation means on and off the field before closing with the 3-4-3: local soccer movement, global headlines, and the stories shaping the game this week.