My choice for Atlanta United’s men of the match following its 1-0 win over Orlando City on Friday: Goalkeeper Brad Guzan and striker Hector Villalba.
BRAD GUZAN
Why: He made three crucial saves, including two on headed shots by Jonathan Spector, to help Atlanta United to its third shutout in four games. Guzan finished with five saves.
“More importantly than coming back into the league, it was more important to go on the road and get a good result,” Guzan said. “Road wins haven’t been the easiest for us to come by, so for us to come to a place like Orlando, where we knew they are a good team, and take all three points is satisfying.”
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HECTOR VILLALBA
Why: He scored the game-winner in the 86th minute on a hard right-footed shot from at least 25 yards out. The ball sailed into the far corner. He said it was the second-best goal he has ever scored. The best came while with San Lorenzo to defeat Botafogo and advance out of the Group Stage in the 2014 Copa Libertadores.
“I didn’t imagine to score a goal like that,” he said. “I received the ball. There was a player right in front of me. I turned and took a shot on goal.
“I wanted it to be on goal, but not necessarily right there.”
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