Known for its high-flying attack since arriving in MLS, Tata Martino's side has shown it can win with a tough and veteran-savvy backline
Atlanta United boasted the league's highest-scoring attack this season, knocking in a whopping 70 goals, but it has been the team's increased commitment to defending, and the continued evolution of its back-line, that has helped the Five Stripes reach the MLS Cup final in the team's second season.
Thursday's final score at Red Bull Arena may have read 1-0 to the New York Red Bulls, but Atlanta's defense did the job of protecting a three-goal lead, limiting the Red Bulls chances for 90 minutes before a late Tim Parker consolation goal spoiled the shutout, but not Atlanta United's MLS Cup-clinching series win.