The question mark about Atlanta United’s MLS Cup hopes has never revolved around talent or skill. It’s been about the team’s toughness—its ability to grind out games in tense conditions, to win with spirit and toughness, and to do so against good teams. Over two legs, Atlanta United has answered that criticism. It won a difficult game in Yankee Stadium in which it didn’t allow a shot on target. In the home leg, knowing NYCFC would be attacking with all its might, the Five Stripes stood tall. And Atlanta didn’t necessarily just rely on its stars to do it (though Almiron returning certainly helps).
Five Thoughts: Atlanta United punches its ticket to MLS Cup Eastern Conference Finals
