Atlanta United seemed destined to come away with one measly point in their game tonight against Toronto FC, but Jamal Thiare had other ideas.
The teams had been tied 1-1 through most of the game, with Thiago Almada scoring what could be his final goal for Atlanta United at the 45 +2 minute, and Toronto FC’s Federico Bernardeschi in the 46th minute. But a last-second trick play would give the Five Stripes a surprise victory and 3 badly needed points.
HIDE AND SEEK CHAMPION 🏆 @JamalThiare14 pic.twitter.com/VeEsALC9Ff
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) June 30, 2024
Credit: Atlanta United;
Right up to the 7th minute over the 90-minute stoppage time, as Toronto was setting up what would seem to be the final play of the match near the goal, Thiare walked behind Luka Gavran, Toronto’s goalkeeper, stole the ball that Gavran planted on the field, and punched in a goal that would seal the go-ahead win for Atlanta United.
That sneak attack goal produced the third-latest game-winning goal in Atlanta Untied’s history (96:56) since their late shot win against Chicago Fire on April 23, 2023 (98:10).
This win means Atlanta gains ground on Toronto in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, with Atlanta (5-8-6) ranked 9th and Toronto 8th with a 7-10-3 record.