Atlanta United cruises past LAFC

With goals from Julian Gressel, Josef Martinez, two penalty kicks from Miguel Almiron and a long strike by Romario Williams, Atlanta United won its fourth consecutive game by dispatching LAFC 5-0 on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Despite playing with a patchwork defense because of the absence of three starters to injuries or suspension, Atlanta United (4-1-0) notched its second consecutive shutout. Like in last week’s 1-0 win at Minnesota United, the Five Stripes weren’t tested too seriously on defense.

The victory improves Atlanta United to 3-0 at home after Gressel’s strike in the first half and Martinez’s in the second half. More than 45,000 tickets were sold and distributed.