Atlanta United midfielder Thiago Almada #23 dribbles during the first half during the match against San Jose Earthquakes at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA on Saturday February 25, 2023. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta United)

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Atlanta United Returns With Explosive 2-1 Win vs San Jose in Season Opener

By Yakiri Thomas / February 26, 2023

Atlanta returned to Mercedes Benz Stadium on Saturday to open the 2023 MLS season against the San Jose Earthquakes in front of 67,538 adoring fans.

Ahead of the match Atlanta held a 3-0 all time record against the Earthquakes at home and 1-0 on the road in the series.

 

Brad Guzan and Miles Robinson both started the match, each marking their respective returns from season-ending Achilles injuries last year.


Early in the 12th minute San Jose started off the scoring effort behind Jeremy Ebobisse game opening goal.

 

Atlanta continued the fight with Thiago Almada scoring two goals in second-half stoppage time to propel Atlanta United to a 2-1 victory over Earthquakes.


“Very happy for this victory, the effort from the team. It was important to win at home, the first game of the season so we’re very happy for the victory and it was due to everyone on the squad.” said Almada.

Almada became the second player in MLS history to score both an equalizing and the game-winning goal in the 99th minute, marking the first Atlanta United player to score two goals during stoppage time.

 

The match marked the club’s first win while trailing after 75 minutes.

 

“I love that emotion when you think you are going to lose, then the emotions come from them. Thiago with the first goal from outside the box, and then that amazing golazo to win the game. It was special for us and I hope the fans are happy with it.” said Atlanta Head Coach Gonzalo Pineda.

“Two emotional moments today for me. First of all looking at Anton (Walkes’) tifo, I was emotional for sure. He was a great guy for us. We really miss him here with us. That was a nice touch from the club and supporters for Anton.”added Pineda. “He deserves that. The other one was I was talking to Nathan, a little kid (the honorary captain today). He’s one of those kids who this was his Make-A-Wish to be a honorary captain. He was telling me how much he loves football, he’s a big fan of Lionel Messi. His family was amazed with the opportunity to be here and be with Atlanta United with the team during a match. I hope this memory lasts forever.”

Atlanta United returns to action March 4 to take on Toronto FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

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