Atlanta United vs. New York City FC
Atlanta Wins Thriller 4-3
United Rallies for the Win
Atlanta Latinos Magazine – It took a thrilling comeback, but Atlanta United finally earned its second win of the young season, a 4-3 victory over New York City FC Saturday night at Mercedes Benz Stadium.
New York took an early lead on a goal by Hannes Wolf in the 15’. However, Atlanta United answered back right before halftime. Alexey Miranchuk notched his first goal of the season. Both Latte Lath and Saba Lobjanidze were credited with assists.
Another slow start to the second half bit Atlanta again. New York put two quick goals on the board to take a commanding 3-1 lead. Alonso Martinez converted a penalty kick in the 48’. Then Wolf tacked on his second goal of the night in the 51’, with an assist from Julian Fernandez.
But Atlanta did not quit. Buoyed by an own goal from New York’s Keaton Parks, Atlanta continued to claw back. In the 75’, Miguel Almiron recorded his first goal since his return to Atlanta, heading home a beautiful cross from Xande Silva.
After tying it up, Atlanta rode the momentum to earn the game winner. Lath converted a New York miscue into a deft chip over the goalkeeper’s head. It was Lath’s team leading fifth goal of the season. He is now tied for second in MLS for most goals.
Atlanta’s manager Ronny Deila earned the victory against his former club, who he coached from 2020 to 2022. However, he was not happy with the team’s performance. “We are not and even close to where we want to be, where we are. In the first half was a like really bad performance and very bad defense also”.
Atlanta stays at home to play FC Dallas next Saturday, April 5.
Notes…Atlanta’s homegrown player Dominik Chong Qui made his first MLS start, replacing Pedro Amador, who hurt his quadriceps just prior to the game…this was Atlanta’s first win against NYCFC since August of 2019…attendance was announced as 42,518.
