Atlanta United’s struggles continue as they are unable to sustain a two-goal lead at home and walk away from tonight’s match with New York City in a 2-2 draw.
NYC was the beneficiary of a penalty kick by Talles Magno in the 82nd minute of the match. That penalty kick went on despite the protests of Atlanta United. NYC’s Mounsef Bakrar then kicked in a goal in the 65th minute.
The Five Stripes’ two goals came from Daniel Rios 21 seconds into the game, and Saba Lobzhanidze in the 38th minute. But they were unable to hold NYC at bay in the second half of the game, as the depleted Atlanta defense couldn’t stop either the Magno penalty kick or Bakrar’s advance to the goal.
NYC owned the ball, 61% over the Stripes 39%. But Atlanta had more on target shots, 9-5. Officiating showed Atlanta the yellow card more times than NYC, 3-1.
“I’m angry, I’m upset…I’m not happy about it.” said visibly frustrated Atlanta United coach Rob Valentino at a press conference about the result. He said the team was under pressure and had to make adjustments in the second half. He added the team needs to study more film and clean up individual player mistakes ahead of Saturday’s game.
Tonight’s draw nets Atlanta United 2 points (NYC also gets 2 points), but does not advance them closer to the playoffs, with Atlanta still in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, with 25 points total. They are one point away from the playoff line, however.
Atlanta United plays Columbus this Saturday in Mercedes Benz Stadium.