atlanta united x NEw york red bulls

The Eastern Conference match between Atlanta United and New York Red Bulls at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was a rugged one. In a physical encounter that saw 30 penalties and 10 yellow cards, including six in the first half alone, Atlanta United hung on to a first-half advantage thanks to a goal from Giorgos Giakoumakis to beat New York Red Bulls for the first time in club history in regular season play.

In the first half, Atlanta did a good job of handling New York's strong press. Atlanta dominated possession and attempted four shots, two of which were on target. Red Bulls defender Cristian Cásseres Jr. had a chance on goal for Atlanta United in the 21st minute, but goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a leaping save to preserve the score at 1-0 going into the half.

In the 64th minute, the Red Bulls came close to tying the game. When Atlanta United's corner kick was headed out, the Red Bulls quickly countered by forcing a turnover. Vanzeir faced little opposition as several defenders surged upfield to protect the corner. He advanced with the ball toward the right goal but his attempt missed.

Atlanta United had to tighten up in the final minutes to protect their slim advantage. After a lot of extra time, Atlanta United was able to pull out a 1-0 victory. This was Atlanta United's first-ever regular season victory over the Red Bulls and their second shutout of the season.

[Photography by Rachel Pearce]