Atlanta United Vs FC Dallas: 5 things we learned

Atlanta United Vs FC Dallas: 5 things we learned – Missing identity

ATLANTA, GA APRIL 20: Atlanta's Julian Gressel (24) can't believe his shot on goal just missed during the match between FC Dallas and Atlanta United FC on April 20th, 2019 at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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ATLANTA, GA APRIL 20: Atlanta’s Leandro González Pirez (5) gestures to the referee during the match between FC Dallas and Atlanta United FC on April 20th, 2019 at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

4. Gonzalez-Pirez’s worst game

Leandro Gonzalez-Pirez did not play well on Saturday. The Argentine defender picked up a yellow card in the 40th minute and committed many fouls throughout the remainder of the match. Gonzalez-Pirez came dangerously close to picking up a second yellow. He was also responsible for both of Dallas’ goals.

It can be argued that this game was Gonzalez-Pirez’s worst with the Five Stripes. He mistakenly headed a ball back towards goalkeeper Brad Guzan earlier this season in the CONCACAF Champions League against Herediano, which resulted in an easily given away goal. That mistake was disappointing, but with his individual errors leading to both of Dallas’ goals, Saturday’s performance may take the cake.

During Dallas’ first goal, it was Gonzalez-Pirez whose missed tackle gave Michael Barrios plenty of space to advance the ball before passing to Jesus Ferreira for the opening score. And then, late in the game with a point still on the table, Gonzalez-Pirez failed to keep up with Bryan Acosta on a run towards the goal, Dallas doubling their lead and securing the victory.

If Gonzalez-Pirez can’t regain his form, we may see head coach Frank de Boer give other players opportunities to play instead.

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