Atlanta United suddenly found themselves on the cusp of a true winning streak after two wins in the past eight days, first against Red Bulls at home, and then on the road against Minnesota United midweek. The club also announced the acquisition of their DP forward in Breel Embolo (who was introduced at halftime) earlier Sunday, and Sporting Kansas City left their leading goalscorer Dejan Jovelic out of the lineup amidst rumors he’s being transferred to Seattle. Thus, the Five Stripes truly had quite literally everything going for them in this edition of Sunday Night Soccer as they looked to close the gap to the playoff line. By the time the final whistle blew, as nerve-wracking as it was, the Five Stripes found themselves the brand new owners of a shiny, fresh winning streak. Here are the final whistle thoughts live from Mercedes-Benz Stadium!
A winning streak?
Not since 2021 has Atlanta United seen such hallowed ground as a three match winning streak (solely in MLS, anyway). The season hasn’t been kind, but is this the light at the end of the tunnel, or just a rogue Orlando fan sitting down there with a headlamp on?
The streak presents an interesting conundrum for Tata Martino. Adrian Gill has played some solid footy in midfield during a time when Jay Fortune and Will Reilly have been injured, while the club waits on Mauricio Amaro’s visa. Newcomers Paulo Diaz and Junior Alonso have settled in nicely, so what changes are made after a week’s rest? Does Tata change up the hot hand that gave fans some semblance of hope and put them within three points of the playoff line?
It’ll likely be a quick integration for Embolo, despite Picault’s recent form, but the midfield depth chart and competition will surely give the Tata and staff something to think about.
That ending didn’t need to be so scary, though.
Miguel Almiron
Everyone’s favorite Paraguayan DP has struggled to stay consistent in his time back in MLS, but his form over the last few matches has placed him solely at the top of the Atlanta United assist leaderboard. He’s been finding himself as an improved outlet during transitions, and though some of the final third decision making still isn’t quite where it needs to be, he deserves the credit for settling in and improving. Without his efforts, this winning streak certainly wouldn’t have happened. Now, with a DP target man up top in Breel Embolo, fans can only hope his numbers further skyrocket. Though, that connection with Fafa Picault has admittedly been crispy.
Tradition
Take a look back at your past eight days. Think of the actions you’ve taken, the routines you’ve been a part of, and the people whom you’ve allowed to surround you.
I’m going to need you to repeat that ad infinitum.
Let us know below what you thought of the match!