1. 2018 – MLS Cup: Atlanta United Vs. Portland Timbers
Ahead of a season filled with expectation and hope, Atlanta United could satisfy all and win the 2018 MLS Cup. 73, 019 people gathered into Mercedes Benz Stadium to watch the second-year MLS newcomers face the historic Cascadian giants, the Portland Timbers. Supporters packed the stadium to see the city win only its second professional championship. They weren’t disappointed.
Michael Parkhurst slid into a tackle against Jeremy Ebobisse to send the ball straight into the feet of Josef Martinez, right in front of the goal. Martinez made no mistake and grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute.
A one-goal lead is good, but not enough for comfort. So the entire stadium took a deep breath of relief in the 54th minute. Franco Escobar got on the end of a set-piece to make it 2-0 for the hosts and ensure that they would become MLS champions for the first time in their history.
Atlanta watched its club put the cherry on top of one of the best single seasons in all of MLS. There were high hopes for the Five Stripes and they delivered on every front.