In a script reversal from the last two wins for Atlanta United 2, they came from behind to defeat Toronto Sunday night at Fifth Third Stadium 2-1. The win is Atlanta's third in a row, moving them to within nine points of the final playoff spot held by Chattanooga with two games in hand on their rivals up I-75.
After Julian Altobelli opened the scoring from a free kick in the 16th minute, Atlanta leveled the score ten minutes later with some magic from a free kick of their own. Toronto's Marko Stojadinovic committed a DOGSO (denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity) foul on Luke Brennan and earned a red card in the 26th minute. The ensuing free kick saw Nick Firmino's free kick from thirty yards out slam off the post. The rebound fell to Kaiden Moore, who settled it and passed the ball into the open net for his first professional goal.
Early in the second half, Rodrigo Neri scored with a header on a deflected cross from Luke Brennan. It was Neri's fourth goal contribution (three goals, one assist) in as many matches. Unfortunately for him, his night ended after he was sent off a few minutes later after a collision with Adam Pearlman where Neri was judged to have elbowed Pearlman in the face. The match finished 10v10 with neither side able to add to the scoreline.
Atlanta United 2 is back in action on the road next Sunday night in Ft. Lauderdale as they face a team that is also chasing a playoff berth, Inter Miami II. Pregame coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. on the SDH Network with kickoff just after 7:00 p.m.
✍️: Jason Longshore
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