Atlanta United secured a 2-1 win over Sporting Kansas City on Sunday night, delivering the club its first three‑match winning streak in five years. The decisive moments came early, as midfielder Miguel Almirón provided the assists for both goals.
Early lead established
In the 13th minute, Tomás Jacob found the back of the net after receiving a pass from Almirón and a second assist from 18‑year‑old Cooper Sanchez. The play gave Atlanta a 1-0 advantage and highlighted the growing chemistry among the team’s attacking unit.
Just eleven minutes later, Almirón delivered a corner that found veteran forward Fafà Picault. Picault headed the ball home, assisted by rookie defender Elías Báez, extending the lead to 2-0. The goal marked Picault’s third of the season and his 63rd in 258 career appearances.
Sporting KC’s response
Sporting Kansas City reduced the deficit in the 70th minute when Stephen Afrifa capitalized on a loose ball in the box to score his second goal of the season, an unassisted effort that made it 2-1.
Despite the late surge, Atlanta held on for the win. Goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos recorded his sixth save of the season, while Sporting’s keeper Stefan Cleveland made a single stop.
Key statistics and roster notes
Both Almirón and Báez logged four assists each this season, while Sanchez already has five assists in his first full campaign with the club. Jacob’s goal was his third of the year, and Picault now has three goals in his first 14 matches for Atlanta United.
Atlanta entered the match with the second‑fewest points in the league but finished the night three points shy of the final Eastern Conference playoff spot. Sporting KC remains at the bottom of the standings with 15 points.
Injuries and discipline
Mid‑season substitute Luke Brennan entered the game for Atlanta in the 62nd minute but left with an injury in the 77th. Báez received a yellow card in the 76th minute, which will trigger a one‑match suspension for accumulation.
Off‑field moves
Earlier in the day, Atlanta United announced the acquisition of Swiss international striker Breel Embolo from French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais, adding depth to the forward line for the upcoming stretch of games.
Upcoming fixtures
Sporting Kansas City will host the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday, while Atlanta United looks to continue its momentum at home against Charlotte FC on Saturday.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
