Who scored Atlanta United’s first goal?

Hector Villalba scored the first goal in Atlanta United’s history, putting away his own rebound in the 9th minute of Saturday’s preseason game against Chattanooga.

Forward Kenwyne Jones, in the penalty box because he was defending a corner kick, cleared a cross with his head, sending the ball to midfielder Miguel Almiron. He ran more than 40 yards with the ball before laying it off to Villalba, closing in on his left. Villalba’s first shot struck Chattanooga goalkeeper Kyle Zobeck in the chest, hit Villalba and rolled into the goal.

It was a lightning-quick counter-attack and showed the speed of Atlanta United’s midfield. The two who combined for the goal are Designated Players. The third, Josef Martinez, didn’t start.

About the Author

Dream’s Allisha Gray named starter for WNBA All-Star Game

Dream guard Allisha Gray was named a WNBA All-Star starter for the first time, becoming the first Atlanta player to earn the honor since 2018.

3 takeaways from Dream’s statement win against Liberty

The Dream beat the Liberty with season-high points in the paint and key performances from Brionna Jones, Allisha Gray and Jordin Canada — but some late-game issues linger.

The story behind Chase Elliott’s car art in ‘unbelievable’ Atlanta win

The car that powered Chase Elliott's NASCAR Cup Series victory at EchoPark Speedway featured special artwork courtesy of a young cancer patient from Georgia

The Latest

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC

Sports Daily: In Onsi we trust

Atlanta TV sports listings

Dream’s Allisha Gray named starter for WNBA All-Star Game

Featured

Credit: AP

Senate GOP passes budget bill Democrats describe as ‘a catastrophe’

Republicans in the U.S. Senate have passed the “big, beautiful bill” championed by President Donald Trump, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tiebreaking vote.

State Farm Arena top 5 globally in box office — behind only Sphere, MSG in U.S.

State Farm Arena brought in about $76.2 million across 60 events.

At a store that never closes, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch

At JJ Food Mart on the west side of Atlanta, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch. If you misbehave, Connell Daniels Jr. might put you on Instagram.