Almada and Silva Score but Atlanta United Loses 3-2

the Five Stripes fell 3-2 to Charlotte FC. Thiago Almada and Xande Silva found the back of the net, but defensive lapses and a lack of finishing touch proved too much to overcome. Strap in as we break down the key moments and turning points in Atlanta’s hard-fought loss against the MLS newcomers. Though not the desired result, Almada’s screamer and Silva’s curler showed flashes of promise.

Charlotte equalized just before halftime in controversial fashion in the 40th minute the cross from Jere Uronen hit Derrick Williams’ leg and bounced toward Atlanta’s goal. Keeper Josh Cohen made an impressive diving stop to clear it off the line, but VAR ruled it crossed the line. The goal was awarded, tying the match 1-1 at the break.

The visitors took the lead in the 56th minute. On a counterattack, Liel Abada got a pass 25 yards out, took a touch, and picked out the bottom right corner beyond Cohen’s reach.

Abada added another in the 68th minute. Uronen played a ball to Brandt Bronico down the end line, who cut it back to Abada. He one-timed a shot into the bottom right corner to make it 3-1.

Atlanta pulled within one in the 76th minute. Silva settled the ball with a touch before curling a shot into the far side netting for his first goal this season, making it 3-2. Atlanta pushed for an equalizer until the final whistle but came up short.

“We  will not have all of the players to go over tactics, but we can work on other things such as mentality. This break can come as a reset and so we can change things for the good of the team.” said coach Pineda.

The Five Stripes (4-8-4, 16 points) host Houston Dynamo Saturday, June 15 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.