Atlanta United vs. Montreal
Atlanta Rolls in 3-2 Victory
Latte Lath Scores Two Goals
Atlanta Latinos Magazine – It was opening night for the 2025 season, where optimism reigns supreme. The near capacity crowd was energized, looking to cheer this year’s version of Atlanta United to victory over CF Montreal.
The home team did not disappoint. In a fast-paced, often times wide open game, Atlanta United showed off its updated offensive arsenal in dispatching Montreal 3-2. Montreal proved to be a pesky foe, though.
Atlanta scored right before halftime. In the 42’, newly acquired striker Emmanuel Latte Lath headed home a corner kick from Saba Lobjanidze. From Ivory Coast, Lath joined the team after a record setting transfer from Middlesbrough.
Montreal evened the match shortly after intermission. Nathan Saliba scored on a pass from Prince Owusu.
Then in the 63’, Latte Lath scored his second goal, converting a botched save attempt that bounced away from the goalkeeper. However, the lead was short lived, as Montreal struck back in the 71’. Prince Owusu scored his first goal of the season, with assists credited to George Campbell and Tom Pearce.
In the 85’, Edwin Mosquera banged home the game winner for Atlanta. He had just been subbed into the game three minutes prior to that. Assists were given to Latte Lath and Miguel Almiron.
Overall, Atlanta’s offense looked much improved over last year’s team. It looked fast and aggressive, attacking the defense with speed and intention. The defense, however, needs improvement, especially after the sloppy play in the second half. In his post-match press conference, Atlanta’s manager Ronny Deila said the “second half was very hard to watch as a coach”.
Atlanta United next travels to Charlotte for an early afternoon match next Saturday, March 1.
Notes…Latte Lath is the 8th player to score in their Atlanta United debut…it was Brad Guzan’s 200th start in MLS regular season…Almiron made his triumphant return after transferring to Newcastle following the 2018 championship season…Montreal led 2.50 to 1.44 in expected goals…attendance was announced as 65,520.
