Defending champions Atlanta United FC moved ahead in the next step in their MLS post-season journey, securing a spot in the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semi-finals.
Against a home crowd and very confident hosts, the Revs managed to hold their ground for nearly 70 minutes. The visitors managed to block Atlanta’s lethal weapon Josef Martinez, and even created several chances (notably, was Revs’ Christian Penilla’s powerful shot on the 29th minute), and more shorts from close range, all to be saved by Atlanta’s goalkeeper Brad Guzan.
Atlanta did manage to break through eventually, with Ezequiel Barco skillfully managing to send a ball past New England’s defense into the right side of the box, finding Argentinian teammate Franco Escobar who appeared out of nowhere and powerfully scored Atlanta’s winning goal (70′).
Although Atlanta did lead in overall possession (55%), both sides equaled in 14 shots each, with New England producing 6 shots on target, compared to Atlanta’s 5.
Being the number 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, Atlanta United hosted number 7 New England Revolution, which hasn’t been to the MLS Playoffs since 2015. The Revs finished their season with this loss to the reigning champions, but they sure didn’t go down without a fight.
Atlanta will host the Philadelphia Union on Friday, October 25th for the next playoffs round.
