In a season defined by grit and determination, Atlanta United’s magical postseason came to an end with a 1-0 defeat to Orlando City SC in the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs at Inter&Co Stadium.
Orlando’s lone goal, scored by Ramiro Enrique in the first half, was enough to eliminate the 5-Stripes and send the Lions to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they’ll host the New York Red Bulls.
Orlando City came out with urgency, nearly breaking through in the fifth minute when Dagur Thorhallsson hit the post, and Facundo Torres’ follow-up was heroically blocked by Saba Lobjanidze at the goal line.
The Lions kept pressing and eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute. Off a Martín Ojeda corner, Enrique capitalized on a defensive lapse, sliding the ball into the net to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Atlanta United struggled offensively in the first half, registering just two shots, none on target, compared to Orlando’s seven shots and 64% possession.
A tactical blow for Atlanta came late in the first half when striker Jamal Thiaré, fresh off a heroic performance against Inter Miami, was forced off with an injury. Daniel Ríos replaced him in the 43rd minute but was later sidelined in the second half.
Atlanta entered the second half needing to overturn the deficit but was dealt another setback as Ríos left the match with a head injury seconds after the restart. With no natural strikers available, interim head coach Rob Valentino shuffled his lineup, moving Saba into a more advanced role.
Despite glimpses of attacking promise, Atlanta couldn’t produce a shot on target. Alexey Miranchuk came close with a well-struck effort into the side netting, and Ronald Hernández delivered a dangerous cross late, but the final touch eluded the 5-Stripes.
Meanwhile, Orlando looked for a second goal to seal the match, with Duncan McGuire missing a chance at the near post. Ultimately, the Lions held firm to secure the narrow victory.
For Atlanta United, the result was a bittersweet end to an improbable playoff run. After surviving four elimination matches and defeating higher-seeded teams like Inter Miami, the 5-Stripes fell just short of another upset.
- Dax McCarty, in the final match of his storied 19-year career, reflected on the team’s resilience:
“Frustrating season, but we ended it with pride, and we ended it fighting. The magic just ran out a little bit here in Orlando.”
- Interim head coach Rob Valentino praised the team’s effort despite the challenges:
“It became difficult when we had to take both forwards off. But they kept showing up, kept working, and never gave in.”
- Goalkeeper Brad Guzan pointed to the attacking struggles:
“Ultimately, we didn’t have enough in the attacking third. It became really difficult.”
What’s Next?
While Atlanta United’s season ends, Orlando City moves on to face the New York Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals on November 30.
For the 5-Stripes, attention now turns to the offseason, with questions looming about the future of the roster and coaching staff. However, their valiant playoff performance showcased the heart and potential of this squad, setting a strong foundation for 2025.
