ATL Standard

Atlanta United fell 2-0 to Nashville SC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 15, 2024. After a long break and two road matches, the 5-Stripes returned home for their first MLS match since a 2-1 win over the Columbus Crew on July 20. Despite carrying momentum from a road win in Charlotte, Atlanta struggled early and was unable to recover.

Atlanta United faced an early test when Brad Guzan made a quick save from a free kick just two minutes into the match. Nashville scored five minutes later after pinning Atlanta in their defensive third. Midfielder Alex Muyl converted a volley to give Nashville the lead.

"They (Nashville) played with intensity, they played fast and aggressive, they played like they had something to lose. In the first five minutes of the game, we didn’t get out of our own half; whether it was aggression in duels or clearances," said head coach Rob Valentino.

The 5-Stripes attempted to respond quickly. Xande Silva forced Nashville keeper Joe Willis into a diving save in the 10th minute. By the 16th minute, Atlanta started gaining more possession as Nashville’s defense collapsed inward, leaving space on the wings.

Guzan made another crucial save in the 32nd minute on a header from Teal Bunbury. Edwin Mosquera replaced Silva in the 37th minute. A potential second goal for Nashville was disallowed by VAR due to Hany Mukhtar being offside.

"We kind of dug ourselves in a hole from the start. We were lucky the second goal was offside - another crap goal to give up," said centerback Derrick Williams. "And then, going forward, I don’t remember too many clear-cut chances that we had to get one back, which was disappointing as well."

Injuries and substitutions marked much of the second half's action. Stian Gregersen received medical attention but returned to play shortly after halftime. Pedro Amador narrowly missed scoring with a powerful shot over the net.

Both teams had opportunities but struggled with turnovers and set pieces throughout much of the second half. Saba Lobjanidze hit the goalpost after intercepting Anunga's pass in the 66th minute.

A triple substitution saw Jamal Thíare, Tristan Muyumba, and Dax McCarty enter for Daniel Ríos, Bartosz Slisz, and Jay Fortune respectively in the 70th minute. McCarty previously played for Nashville SC and will retire after this season.

Nashville sealed their victory with a transition play leading to their second goal in the 76th minute by Hany Mukhtar following assists from Walker Zimmerman and Teal Bunbury.

Pedro Amador left injured late in stoppage time after colliding with Sam Surridge; Noah Cobb replaced him.

Despite nine extra minutes added for stoppage time, Atlanta could not find an opening past Zimmerman's defense efforts at goalmouth.

"We will change little things like work rate but we look to keep fighting...once we have that we’ll be in a better spot," said Jay Fortune post-match.

Atlanta United now holds a record of 5-6-3 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium this season.

Next up is Intern Miami FC visiting Mercedes-Benz Stadium; short-term memory will be key as Atlanta faces another top team soon.

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