The new Major League Soccer season continues with an exciting clash between San Jose Earthquakes and Atlanta United. The match will take place at PayPal Park on February 28, with the home side looking to build on their strong start and finally break a negative streak against their visitors. Both teams missed out on the playoffs last season, but their opening performances this year have been very different, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter in California.

San Jose Earthquakes: Momentum and Home Strength

San Jose Earthquakes began their 2026 MLS campaign in style, defeating Sporting Kansas City 3-0 on February 22. That result not only gave them an early boost in confidence but also placed them second in the league standings. Their recent form shows consistency, with 3 wins in their last 5 matches, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game. At home, they have been particularly reliable, with Over 1.5 goals recorded in each of their last 16 home league matches and both teams scoring in 15 of those.

San Jose’s attacking rhythm has been impressive, having found the net in each of their last 21 MLS matches. Their ability to maintain offensive pressure throughout the game is also evident, as Over 0.5 goals in the second half have been scored in 18 of their last 20 home fixtures. The team’s defensive line, led by standout performer Daniel Munie, showed solidity in the season opener, keeping a clean sheet and contributing to the scoring. With such momentum, the Earthquakes will aim to use their home advantage to finally earn their first-ever victory over Atlanta United.

Atlanta United: Searching for a Reaction

For Atlanta United, the start of the new season has been less encouraging. Their 2-0 defeat away to FC Cincinnati on February 21 highlighted the challenges they face after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The team currently sits 12th in the MLS standings and has struggled for form, with no wins in their last five matches (1 draw, 4 defeats). During that stretch, they have averaged just 0.2 goals scored per game while conceding 2.0 on average.

Atlanta’s attacking output has been limited, and their defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly away from home. Historically, however, they have dominated this fixture, winning all four previous meetings against San Jose, with an average of 3.3 goals scored and 1.8 conceded per match. Despite that record, their current form suggests they will need a significant improvement to maintain that dominance. The team’s main challenge will be to rediscover their attacking efficiency and avoid another slow start that could leave them chasing the game early on.

Head-to-Head and Key Statistics

• Head-to-head record: San Jose Earthquakes 0 wins, 0 draws, 4 losses against Atlanta United.


• Last meeting: 2-1 in favor of Atlanta United on February 26, 2023.


• San Jose have scored in each of their last 21 MLS matches.


• Over 1.5 goals have been scored in the last 16 home matches of San Jose.


• Both teams scored in 15 of San Jose’s last 16 home league games.


• Atlanta United have failed to win any of their last five matches in all competitions.

San Jose Earthquakes vs Atlanta United: Analysis and Prediction

This fixture brings together two sides with contrasting momentum. San Jose Earthquakes are full of confidence after a dominant opening win, while Atlanta United are still searching for rhythm and stability. The home side’s attacking consistency and strong record at PayPal Park make them favorites to control the tempo and create more chances. Atlanta’s historical advantage in this matchup cannot be ignored, but their current form raises doubts about their ability to extend that streak.

Given the attacking trends of San Jose and the defensive fragility of Atlanta, this match is likely to produce goals. The statistics suggest a high probability of both teams finding the net, especially considering that San Jose’s home games frequently feature open play and second-half scoring action. However, the Earthquakes’ current momentum and home advantage could prove decisive in determining the outcome.

San Jose Earthquakes vs Atlanta United prediction by BetMines:
Over 2.5 goals with 57% probability.