Atlanta United Secures 2-1 Victory Over Orlando City: Key Performances and Highlights

Atlanta United pulled off a dramatic win over Orlando City SC, on the final day of the postseason to make it to the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs! They secured their spot by defeating the red-hot Orlando City SC 2-1 in a crucial match to settle the nerves of the Five Stripes fans on the final day of the regular season. Goals from Saba Lobjanidze and Jamal Thiaré gave them an early lead, and despite a close contest and some tense moments, Atlanta held on to win. This victory and favourable results from other matches clinched the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference. They will now face CF Montréal in the Eastern Conference Wild Card game 

Atlanta started strong, scoring two goals in the first 16 minutes. Saba Lobjanidze opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a well-placed shot, followed by Jamal Thiaré's strike in the 16th minute off a rebound from a corner kick. These quick goals set the tone for Atlanta’s aggressive approach. Orlando City responded deep into the first half and pulled back a goal in the 42nd minute, with Martin Ojeda who scored a stunning goal to make it 2-1 for Orlando City. He received the ball cleverly from the left side of the box and snapped a cheeky header past the diving Guzan, showcasing his aerial ability.  This goal injected momentum into Orlando City as they sought to equalize, but despite their efforts, they couldn't find the back of the net again before the first 45 minutes. Atlanta dominated the first half and went into the break with their tails high like a pony on a warm summer day. 

Early in the second half, Atlanta had the chance to extend their lead further after being awarded a penalty after Saba was brought down clumsily in the area, but Alexey Miranchuk's shot was saved comfortably by Orlando’s goalkeeper, Pedro Gallese. In the 88th minute, the stadium was tense, especially the travelling supporters, after the ball was whipped in by Facundo Torres with zest from the right side. McGuire found space inside the box and executed a precise shot past Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan to restore parity. Saved by the bell, or should I say saved by the referee’s decision after VAR stepped in to point out a handball in the build-up to the goal.  

The referee, however, chalked the goal off, and the play continued, sparking discussions among commentators and fans about the decision. These types of calls can often change the momentum of a match, and while Atlanta was able to maintain their lead, the potential goal could have altered the course of the game significantly if awarded. Refereeing decisions like this often led to heated debates in soccer matches.  

The match was a test of character for Atlanta and their ability to capitalize on early opportunities as they held on for a crucial 2-1 win while holding off a tough Orlando side. Atlanta United will next play away to CF Montréal on October 22, 2024, in a single-elimination game, and the winner will advance to play No. 1 seed Inter Miami in the best-of-three first round. The last time Atlanta United missed the MLS playoffs was in 2022. That season, they finished 11th in the Eastern Conference, failing to qualify for the postseason. It was only the second time in the club's history that they did not make the playoffs, the first being in 2020  

Rob Valentino, Atlanta United’s interim head coach, expressed pride and relief following the team's 2-1 win over Orlando City, which secured their spot in the MLS playoffs. He emphasized the determination of the squad, especially after a challenging season filled with ups and downs. Valentino praised the players for their resilience and credited the victory to their focus and tactical execution. He acknowledged that the team’s journey into the playoffs wasn’t easy, but their recent momentum, including standout performances, gave them the belief to push through  

Valentino's leadership has been crucial in steadying Atlanta's form, and while the future of his role remains uncertain, this result was a significant personal and professional achievement for him. 

Atlanta United player ratings (4-2-3-1) 

GK: Brad Guzan – 6/10 - had a strong performance against Orlando City despite giving up a goal.  He made nine crucial saves. His leadership and experience were evident in organizing the defence and making important decisions under pressure. 

LB: Pedro Amador – 7.5 - Amador's positioning and awareness on the field allowed him to make key interceptions and recoveries, which were crucial in maintaining Atlanta's defensive shape. His work rate and energy were also notable, as he constantly supported the midfield and the backline. 

CB: Derick Williams – 6/10 - He was strong in one-on-one situations and made several crucial tackles and interceptions. Williams also displayed good positioning, helping to limit Orlando's attacking opportunities. 

CB: Stian Gregersen – 7/10 - He was effective in aerial duels and showed good awareness in reading the game, helping to neutralize Orlando's attacking threats. Gregersen's passing out of the back was also notable, as he looked to initiate offensive plays from defence. 

RB: Brooks Lennon – 7/10 - He was active on the right flank, contributing defensively and offensively. Lennon provided width, made vital runs down the wing, and delivered crosses into the box. His defensive work rate was commendable, as he helped track back and support the backline when needed. 

LM: Ajani Fortune – 7/10 - had an impactful performance against Orlando City, showcasing his skill and versatility in the midfield. He was effective in ball distribution, helping to maintain possession and transition play from defence to attack. 

RM: Bartosz Slisz – 7/10 - While he may not have had standout moments that drastically influenced the game, he performed his role effectively and helped maintain the team's shape throughout the match. 

LW: Tyler Wolff – 6/10 - Wolff’s ability to take on defenders and create space was noticeable, and he contributed to Atlanta's overall attacking threat throughout the match. 

AM: Aleksey Miranchuck – 6.5/10 - Miranchuk was instrumental in the attack, showcasing creativity and vision. His ability to link up play and find space was vital in creating scoring opportunities. But his missed penalty almost cost Atlanta United the game.  

RW: Saba Lobzhanidze – 8/10 His goal showcased his skill and composure in front of the goal, as he found the proper positioning and finished effectively. This goal added to the team's tally and highlighted his ability to perform in critical moments. 

ST: Jamal Thiare – 8/10 - His movement off the ball and positioning allowed him to capitalize on a defensive lapse from Orlando, resulting in a well-taken finish. 

Manager: Rob Valentino – 9/10 - His tactical decisions were effective, and he successfully guided the team to a 2-1 victory. Valentino's ability to make timely substitutions and adjustments to the lineup contributed to Atlanta United's solid performance. He effectively organized the team defensively while encouraging attacking play, allowing key players like Aleksey Miranchuk and Saba Lobjanidze to thrive.