Atlanta United FC and New York City FC traded momentum, goals and late pressure in a lively 2-2 Major League Soccer draw at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 26.
Atlanta were forced to respond almost immediately after an unfortunate start. Matt Edwards turned the ball into his own net in the 5th minute, handing NYCFC an early advantage. The hosts settled quickly, however, and Giuliano Galoppo restored parity in the 10th minute to send the sides into half-time level at 1-1.
The match remained finely balanced after the interval, with Atlanta holding a narrow 51 percent share of possession while NYCFC carried a slight edge in total shots, 9-7. New York City FC found their second breakthrough in the 56th minute when Andrés Perea struck to put the visitors back in front.
Atlanta again showed resilience rather than allowing the fixture to slip away. Jay Fortune, introduced from the bench, delivered the equalizer in the 74th minute, making it 2-2 and setting up a tense closing spell. Neither side could find a decisive third goal, despite Atlanta placing five of their seven attempts on target.
The draw was a fair reflection of a contest in which both teams had periods of control and repeatedly answered the other side’s challenge. Atlanta United’s Luke Brennan was booked in the 43rd minute, while NYCFC defender Raul Gustavo saw yellow deep into stoppage time.
Atlanta United next host FC Cincinnati on October 10, while New York City FC travel to face Chicago Fire FC on the same day.
Goals
- New York City FC: Matt Edwards own goal, 5′
- Atlanta United FC: Giuliano Galoppo, 10′
- New York City FC: Andrés Perea, 56′
- Atlanta United FC: Jay Fortune, 74′
