In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Atlanta United 2 secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over Chattanooga FC at Finley Stadium on Sunday night. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with four different Atlanta players finding the net, including a stunning last-gasp winner from Karim Tmimi in the 99th minute.
Atlanta struck first blood early, with Javier Armas forcing a turnover just outside the box in the 12th minute. He quickly fed the ball to Alan Carleton, who coolly slotted it into the bottom left corner, putting the visitors ahead. However, Chattanooga responded with two goals before halftime, leveling the score through Milo Garvanian and Medhi Ouarmi.
The second half began with fireworks as Atlanta was awarded a penalty almost immediately. Armas stepped up and calmly converted, restoring the lead for Atlanta. Chattanooga, however, wasn’t done yet. A long ball set up Ouarmi, who assisted Taylor Grey for another equalizer, putting the home side back on top at 3-2.
Just when it seemed Chattanooga might hold on, 17-year-old Ashton Gordon brought Atlanta level again in the 87th minute. Gordon, showing composure beyond his years, controlled a pass from Carleton and blasted a left-footed shot past the keeper for his first professional goal.
The drama reached its peak deep into stoppage time when a scuffle resulted in three red cards for Chattanooga. As play resumed, Ronald Hernández sent a perfect cross into the box for Tmimi, who weaved through the defense to score the match-winner, sealing a hard-fought 4-3 victory for Atlanta United 2.
Atlanta United 2 (7-11-5, 29 points) will wrap up their road trip on Friday, September 6, with a clash against NYCFC II at Belson Stadium. The match will be available on MLSNEXTPro.com and via the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
