BTN News: Atlanta United secured a narrow 1-0 victory over D.C. United on Wednesday night in thrilling fashion with Thiago Almada scoring late in the match. The 79th-minute strike assisted by Ajani Fortune ultimately secured the win for Atlanta United, the five of the season for Almada and second assist of the year for Fortune.
Atlanta United won for the first time under interim manager Rob Valentino Tuesday, with that victory coming after a 2-2 draw in Valentino’s debut against the Houston Dynamo. Even without their top-scorer Giorgos Giakoumakis, who left for Cruz Azul this week, the team demonstrated great fighting spirit.
It was Brad Guzan’s fourth clean sheet of the season, five saves shy of Atlanta’s victory. And there was clear evidence of the defensive qualities the team possesses as they shut down D.C. United’s numerous attacks all throughout the match.
Tyler Miller (3 saves) – When the final whistle sounded in DC’s 1-0 loss to NYCFC at Audi Field, the former LAFC man ended up on the wrong side of the scoreline.
Playing away from home, Atlanta United extended their all-time advantage against D.C. United to 10-7-1, winning for the sixth time in the eight most recent meetings. This win followed a 3-2 defeat to D.C United, in which Christian Benteke scored all three of DC’s goals for a hat-trick.
Next up for Atlanta United are a trip to St. Louis City with Valentino hoping the momentum of their positive results will continue to benefit them. At the same time, D.C. United will be looking to rebound from their recent skid as they entertain the Houston Dynamo.
Atlanta United – without Bartosz Slisz (away at the UEFA European Championship with Poland) on this occasion opened up an advantage in the Boys’ Designated Player standings, winning a vital road match.
Here is to more good news being reported as the MLS season unwinds, with one team looking to build on their strong start and another hoping to reverse fortunes on the pitch.
