Atlanta United’s Offense Clicks in 2-0 Win Over Orlando City

The Five Stripes dominated from start to finish on Sunday night, defeating rival Orlando City SC 2-0 in front of a crowd of 42, 631 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Saba Lobjanidze opened the scoring early with his first goal of the campaign.

Giakoumakis, fresh off a hat trick last week, tallied his team-leading 4th goal of the campaign and added an assist. The breakthrough finally came in the 71st minute courtesy of the red-hot Giakoumakis. After Lobjanidze sprung Brooks Lennon down the right wing, his cutback found Giakoumakis at the top of the box. The forward blasted a shot that hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced in for his fourth goal in two matches.

Veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan earned his first clean sheet of the campaign, making a few key saves to maintain the shutout. Guzan became the first Atlanta United player to reach 200 appearances across all competitions, highlighting his importance and longevity.

The chances kept coming for Atlanta with Thiago Almada nearly setting up Giakoumakis for a tap-in goal midway through the first half. Set pieces also provided opportunities as Derrick Williams and Xande Silva had headers saved and cleared off the line.

With two wins in their first three matches and sitting second in the East, Atlanta’s attack appears to be hitting its stride. Lobjanidze has found opportunities on the right side and gives the team another dynamic threat. Giakoumakis continues to finish chances in a variety of ways, while also linking play and bringing others into the attack.

The club will look to keep the momentum going on the road next week against an always-tough Toronto FC side. But if Atlanta can build on this performance and stay focused, three points could very well be coming back to the ATL. As a fan, you’ve got to be feeling good about how your team is playing right now. The attack is dynamic and the defense is locked in. Sit back and enjoy the ride – it’s shaping up to be another fun season!