ATL Standard

Game one of Atlanta United's third road trip of the season concluded with a 3-0 loss to Philadelphia Union. Despite a late offensive push when Philadelphia was down to 10 players, the 5-Stripes could not overcome early challenges. The team struggled to manage Philadelphia's pressing style and lacked precision in the attacking area.

Ronny Deila's choice to debut a 4-4-2 formation saw Alexey Miranchuk placed as striker and Jay Fortune on the left midfield. This formation was intended to strengthen defense while creating more space for fullbacks Brooks Lennon and Pedro Amador to advance. Miranchuk's role included dropping back to receive and distribute the ball.

From the start, Atlanta faced issues with Philadelphia's pressing, leading to turnovers in defense. Though they regained control or blocked subsequent shots, the attacking advantage belonged to the Union. Brad Guzan's early save in the 16th minute was followed by a series of events that led to Quinn Sullivan scoring in the 26th minute, putting Philadelphia ahead 1-0.

The Union capitalized further after an injury forced Stian Gregersen off in the 31st minute, with Mikael Uhre nearly increasing the lead. More misfortune struck Atlanta when Tristan Muyumba left due to injury, reducing substitutions available to Deila. Despite leading in expected goals at halftime, Atlanta trailed 1-0.

The second half saw Brooks Lennon's loss of possession result in Danley Jean Jacques netting a goal, doubling the lead for Philadelphia. A foul on Miranchuk reduced Philadelphia to 10 men, creating a chance for Atlanta as Jamal Thiaré and Saba Lobjanidze joined to invigorate the offense. An opportunity from Saba hit the woodwork, leaving Atlanta unable to narrow the gap. Philadelphia sealed the win with Tai Baribo scoring in the 84th minute.

Head coach Ronny Deila expressed disappointment: "I'm, of course, very disappointed. We have a lot of the ball but we are not good enough in the two boxes. I think we lose the ball too much in difficult and easy situations ... We're underperforming as a team and also individuals, so that's something I have to look myself in the mirror and take responsibility for."

Atlanta won the possession battle with 58.6 percent but struggled to convert possession into success. This challenge has persisted throughout the season, and the team has only secured one point from games where they dominated possession.

Jay Fortune impressed in his second start this season, playing energetically on the left midfield. His defensive efforts and ball handling were noted, although he left the game in the 66th minute as Deila sought a comeback.

Milestones included Noah Cobb's first start of 2025, Jay Fortune's first start at left midfield, and preparation for the upcoming game against Orlando City SC. This match will be Atlanta's last on the road before returning home.