Eugenio Villazón Assistant Coach | LinkedIn
Eugenio Villazón Assistant Coach | LinkedIn
Atlanta United 2 faced Orlando City B in a match that ended in a 2-2 draw, with the home team securing an extra point through a penalty shootout. The game marked Atlanta's first goals of the season, thanks to Luke Brennan and Ronan Wynne.
The opening quarter-hour was evenly contested, with both teams having opportunities. Orlando nearly scored when Zakaria Taifi sent a cross into the box, but it went unconverted. Atlanta gained control through set pieces and crosses, leading to their first goal in the 30th minute. Ryan Carmichael's lofted pass found Sal Mazzaferro, who assisted Brennan for the goal.
Orlando responded by creating their own chances. Jayden Hibbert made crucial saves for Atlanta against Taifi's attempts. Moises Tablante continued Atlanta's pressure with another cross to Mazzaferro, which narrowly missed.
Just before halftime, Orlando equalized when Justin Ellis scored after combining with Jhon Solis from a throw-in. In the second half, Rodrigo Neri had an early chance for Atlanta but failed to score.
Orlando took the lead in the 56th minute via Shakur Mohammed from a corner by Taifi. Despite several attempts from Atlanta to level again, including shots from Tablante and Dominik Chong Qui, they were initially unsuccessful.
However, in the 78th minute, Nyk Sessock's delivery led to Wynne scoring his first professional goal after Neri's header found him inside the box.
Adyn Torres almost secured victory for Atlanta late on but was denied by a save that pushed the match into penalties. In the shootout, Orlando capitalized on two missed attempts by Atlanta and won four-for-four.
Atlanta United 2 now holds one point (0-1-1) and will next play Chattanooga FC at Fifth Third Stadium on March 30 at 7:30 p.m., available on MLSNEXTPro.com or via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV app.