Atlanta’s 2024 Leagues Cup campaign got underway against fellow MLS team D.C. United on Friday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Together in the group game. After a 3-3 draw at the end of regulation, a chaotic match that saw five goals scored in the first half headed to penalties. Washington, D.C. United earned an additional point in the table after winning the penalty shootout, 6-5. The regulation tie awards one point to Atlanta United.
“Disappointing end result, I guess you could say, going to penalties,” interim head coach Rob Valentino said in his post-match press conference. “But I felt like we had enough in the second half to potentially win the game although [it was] a rough start.”
Despite not having the desired outcome, Atlanta United is still alive in their group, behind D.C. by just one point. following the first group stage match. The single-elimination knockout stage will be reached by the top two finishers in the group of three.
Next up, on Sunday, August 4, Atlanta United takes on Santos Laguna at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.