Atlanta United FC MLS team | Pro Soccer News

Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (center) celebrates after scoring in the first half of Sunday's 3-1 win over Columbus at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Martinez's goal was his 27th of the season, tying the MLS record...

Josef Martinez (right) celebrates his goal with Franco Escobar and Miguel Almiron on his back. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Josef Martinez puts the ball under his shirt and plays to the fans while celebrating his MLS record-tying goal during Sunday's 3-1 victory over Columbus at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com...

Josef Martinez throws the ball to the fans after his MLS record-tying goal, which was scored past Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan salutes Josef Martinez after Martinez's goal. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United fans celebrate after forward Josef Martinez's goal that tied the MLS record for goals in a single season. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United fans hoist a tifo of Josef Martinez, who tied the MLS record for goals in a single season with his 27th Sunday against Columbus. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez scores in the first half of Sunday's MLS match against the Columbus Crew at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The goal, scored past Columbus defender Jonathan Mensah, was his 27th of the...

Another angle as Josef Martinez scores in the first half Sunday. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Josef Martinez just missed scoring another goal as this header bounced off the goal post past Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah during the second half. That goal would have been Martinez's 28th and would have...

Columbus Crew forward Gyasi Zardes scores a goal past Atlanta United defenders to tie the game 1-1 during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...

Atlanta United midfielder Hector Villalba scores a goal past Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah for a 2-1 lead during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...

Hector Villalba and Josef Martinez react as Villalba scores a goal for a 2-1 lead over Columbus Crew during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...

Hector Villalba plays to the fans after scoring a goal past Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah for a 2-1 lead during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...

Josef Martinez reacts after Hector Villalba's goal. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comCurtis Compton

August 19, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron scores a goal past Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah for a 3-1 victory during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018...

Almiron's goal capped off Sunday's 3-1 victory. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Miguel Almiron (left) and Josef Martinez. who had an assist on Almiron's goal, celebrate. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United midfielder Eric Remedi and Columbus Crew midfielder Artur battle for the ball during the second half. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United midfielder Jeff Larentowicz and Columbus Crew forward Gyasi Zardes battle for the ball during the second half. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez warms up while preparing to play the Columbus Crew in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, August 19, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

MLS All-Stars forward Josef Martinez (17) gets tackled by Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli (15) in the first half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Juventus forward Andrea Favilli (42) takes a shot past MLS All-Stars goalkeeper Brad Guzan (1) in the first half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Atlanta United and Falcons owner Arthur Blank hammers before the Major League Soccer All-Star Game between MLS All-Stars and Juventus at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Fans cheer the Major League Soccer All-Star Game between MLS All-Stars and Juventus at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COMHYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars forward Josef Martinez (17) battles Juventus defender Alex Sandro (12) for the ball in the first half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Juventus players celebrate their victory over the MLS All-Stars after the penalty shootout in the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars forward Bradley Wright-Phillips (99) is not able to score during the penalty shootout in the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars defender Matt Hedges (24) and Juventus forward Stefano Beltrame (right) collide on a header in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars midfielder Diego Valeria (8) and Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli (44) collide on a header in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Juventus defender Joao Cancelo (left) and MLS All-Stars midfielder Ezequiel Barco (27) battle for the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars goalkeeper Brad Guzan (1) punches out the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the MLS All-Stars...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars midfielder Alberth Ellis (16) works with the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the MLS...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars midfielder Alberth Ellis (16) reacts for a loose ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Soccer fans react in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the MLS All-Stars after penalty shootout. HYOSUB SHIN...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars defender Graham Zusi (28) heads the ball over Juventus midfielder Alessandro Di Pardo (43) in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars forward Bradley Wright-Phillips (99) attempts a shot against Juventus defender in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Soccer fans react in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the MLS All-Stars after penalty shootout. HYOSUB SHIN...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

MLS All-Stars midfielder Darwin Quintero (25) works with the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Juventus midfielder Alessandro Di Pardo (43) heads the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, August 1, 2018. Juventus won 2-1 over the MLS All-Stars...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United fans react to Josef Martinez's 6th career MLS hat trick during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. Three more goals from Josef...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) reacts after his 6th career MLS hat trick during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. Three more goals...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron (10) works the ball during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COMHYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United fans cheer during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. Three more goals from Josef Martinez set a new MLS record lifted Atlanta...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) makes a shot on goal past D.C. United goalkeeper David Ousted (1) during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron (10) and D.C. United midfielder Chris Durkin (21) battle during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018....HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Andrew Carleton (30) works the ball during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COMHYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - D.C. United midfielder Yamil Asad (22) waves to fans before a MLS soccer game between Atlanta United and D.C. United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - D.C. United midfielder Luciano Acosta (left) and Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron battle for the ball during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) is congratulated by teammates after his 6th career MLS hat trick during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - D.C. United midfielder Zoltan Stieber (18) deflects a shot by Atlanta United midfielder Chris McCann (16) during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - D.C. United goalkeeper David Ousted (1) blocks a shot by Atlanta United defender Franco Escobar (2) during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United head coach Gerardo Martino shouts instructions during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018. Three more goals from Josef Martinez...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez (left) is fouled by D.C. United midfielder Chris Durkin (21) during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21, 2018...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) is congratulated by teammates after his 6th career MLS hat trick during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) gets past D.C. United goalkeeper David Ousted (1) to shoot for his 6th career MLS hat trick during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - D.C. United forward Paul Arriola (7) and Atlanta United defender Franco Escobar (2) collide on a header during the second half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July 21...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Andrew Carleton (30) works the ball against D.C. United midfielder Chris Durkin (21) during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

July 21, 2018 - Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) makes a shot on goal past D.C. United goalkeeper David Ousted (1) during the first half in a MLS soccer game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, July...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Atlanta United strike Josef Martinez is restrained by teammate Chris McCann and opponent Cristian Roldan after getting into a scuffle with Seattle Sounders Chad Marshall during the first half in a MLS soccer match...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez gets into a scuffle with Seattle Sounders Chad Marshall during the first half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez reacts to a call against him team while playing the Seattle Sounders during the first half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Seattle Sounders midfielder Victor Rodriguez and Atlanta United defender Michael Parkhurst collide on a header during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United players Ezequiel Barco (left) and Jeff Larentowicz react as time expires in a 1-1 tie with the Seattle Sounders in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Seattle Sounders Jordan McCrary reacts to drawing a red card against Atlanta United during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United fans set a new MLS record attendance of 72,243 against the Seattle Sounders during a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United fans set a new MLS record attendance of 72,243 hoisting a tifo against the Seattle Sounders during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez and Seattle Sounders defender Kim Kee-Hee battle in front of the goal during the first half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United defender Franco Escobar and Seattle Sounders defender Nouhou Tolo collide on a header during the first half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Seattle Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei blocks a shot as Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez looks on during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. The teams battled to a 1-1...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United defender Leandro Gonzalez Perez has his header bonce off the goal post just missing a goal against the Seattle Sounders during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez (right) trys to finish off a corner kick in front of the goal as Seattle Sounders Jordy Delem defends during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018,...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez attempts a scissor kick against the Seattle Sounders that goes wide with Jordy Delem looking on during the second half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez gets five from Julian Gressel after scoring a goal against the Seattle Sounders to tie the game 1-1 during the second half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez scores a goal against the Seattle Sounders to tie the game 1-1 during the second half in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United fans watch the World Cup final on the halo board in Mercedes-Benz Stadium before their team takes on the Seattle Sounders in a MLS soccer game on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United fans Miguel Gallardo (from left), Ricardo Goncalves, Claudio Magana, and Miguel Ortiz cheer after Croatia scores a goal while watching the World Cup final on the halo board in Mercedes-Benz Stadium...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United fans set a new MLS record attendance of 72,243 against the Seattle Sounders in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, July 15, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez reacts to scoring a goal against Orlando City for a 1-0 lead during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez makes a shot on goal past Orlando City defender Scott Sutter during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United fans fill Mercedes-Benz Stadium as Olympic champion and world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield hammers the gold spike to start the game against Orlando City during the...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Ezequiel Barco celebrates his goal for a 2-0 lead over Orlando City during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron scores his second goal of the game past Orlando City defender Amro Tarek for a 4-0 victory during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez hoists Ezequiel Barco off the pitch after Barcoâs goal for a 2-0 lead over Orlando City during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron celebrates his first of two goals with Josef Martinez for a 2-0 lead over Orlando City during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron (right) celebrates his first of two goals with Josef Martinez for a 2-0 lead over Orlando City during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United Miguel Almiron gets past an Orlando City defender on his way to his second goal of the match during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron (right) celebrates his second goal of the game with Ezequiel Barco and teammates during a 4-0 victory over Orlando City during the second half in a...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United Josef Martinez works the ball through three Orlando City defenders during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United fans show some support for Hector Villalba against Orlando City during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United defender Michael Ambrose works the ball past Orlando City defender Scott Sutter setting up teammates for a shot on goal during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan blocks a shot by Orlando City during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: A large crowd fills Mercedes-Benz Stadium to see Atlanta United defeat Orlando City 4-0 during a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 30, 2018 Atlanta: The 2018 MLS All-Star Game game is promoted during the Atlanta United vs Orlando City soccer match in Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with Portland at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sunday.Eric Rossitch

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Darlinton Nabe fights for control.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Brad Guzan makes a save.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez gets tripped up.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Brad Guzan delivers the ball.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan is congratulated.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Ezequiel Barco dribbles.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Leandro Gonzalez Pirez delivers a ball.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Darlington Nagbe controls the ball.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United forward Romario Williams (right) celebrates his goal for a 3-0 victory over Charleston Battery with teammates during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United head coach Gerardo Martino gives Ezequiel Barco, who had a goal in the game, a pat on the head as he comes out of the game against Charleston Battery during the second half...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United midfielder Andrew Carleton gets some air celebrateing his goal against Charleston Battery with teammate Brandon Vazquez looking on for a 1-0 lead during the first half in a...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United midfielder Andrew Carleton (right) celebrates his goal against Charleston Battery with teammate Brandon Vazquez for a 1-0 lead during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United defender Sal Zizzo works the ball toward the goal against three Charleston Battery defenders during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United midfielder Andrew Carleton has a shot blocked by Charleston Battery goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Romario Williams heads the ball past Charleston Battery forward Ian Svantesson in front of the goal during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United coaches move out of the line of fire as the water sprinklers come on temporarily stopping the game against Charleston Battery during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Romario Williams takes a shot on goal through three Charleston Battery players during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez works the ball through a Charleston Battery double team during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United head coach Gerardo Martino shares a laugh with his assistant coaches while playing Charleston Battery during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United midfielder Ezequiel Barco drives the pitch against Charleston Battery midfielder Kotaro Higashi during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United goalkeeper Alec Kann works from the goal against Charleston Battery during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Romario Williams works against Charleston Battery defender Taylor Mueller during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United head coach Gerardo Martino coaches up midfielder Chris Goslin against Charleston Battery during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United head coach Gerardo Martino directs the offense against Charleston Battery during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez reacts to having his shot blocked by Charleston Battery goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper during the second half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United players Franco Escobar (from left), Miles Robinson, and Kevin Kratz defend against Charleston Battery during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 6, 2018 Kennesaw: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez works the ball against Charleston Battery during the first half in a U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, in Kennesaw. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

The roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is open as Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez celebrates his goal on a penalty kick with teammates while Miguel Almiron jumps on his back for a 1-0 lead against Philadelphia...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: An official pulls a red card on Philadelphia Union midfielder Haris Medunjanin as Atlanta United midfielder Jeff Larentowicz holds him back while he argues a call during the first half in a...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

The roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is open as head coach Gerardo Martino leads Atlanta United across the pitch while arriving to play Philadelphia Union in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: The roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is open as the "Resurgence" fans cheer on their Atlanta United vs. Philadelphia Union in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United Josef Martinez celebrates his goal on a penalty kick against Philadelphia Union for a 1-0 lead during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Philadelphia Union players Haris Medunjanin (from left) and Alejandro Bedoya are held back by teammates as they both draw red cards and are ejected from the game against the Atlanta United...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United Josef Martinez scores a goal on a penalty kick against Philadelphia Union for a 1-0 lead during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez gets a header against Philadelphia Union setting up a shot on goal during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: â HAT TRICK â Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez scores his third goal of the night on a penalty kick for the hat trick and a 3-1 victory against Philadelphia Union during the second...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez gets a header against Philadelphia Union setting up a shot on goal during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Andre Blake and defender Raymon Gaddis react to a 3-1 loss to Atlanta United in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: â HAT TRICK â Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez, who had a hat trick for a 3-1 victory against Philadelphia Union accepts the cheers of the fans at the conclusion of a MLS soccer match...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron takes a shot on goal against Philadelphia Union defender Mark McKenzie during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United players celebrate with Josef Martinez after his first of three goals on his way to the hat trick for a 3-1 victory against Philadelphia Union in a MLS soccer match on Saturday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United fans support their team against Philadelphia Union during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 2, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Jeff Larentowicz battles for a header with Philadelphia Union forward CJ Sapong during the first half in a MLS soccer match on Saturday, June 2, 2018, in Atlanta....ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron fights for the ball. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan makes a save. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron fights for the ball. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez (7) celebrates with teammates after a goal. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez celebrates a goal. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Darlington Nagbe fights for a ball. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez is denied a goal. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron fights for possession. Atlanta United played to a 1-1 draw with New England Wednesday night in Foxborough, Mass.Eric Rossitch/Atlanta United

New York Red Bulls midfielder Daniel Royer celebrates scoring a goal on a free kick to tie the game 1-1 as Josef Martinez looks on during the first half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta. The Red Bulls won the match...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron looks on as Ezequiel Barco makes a heart to the fans after he scored the opening goal against the New York Red Bulls during the first half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

A trainer checks on New York Red Bulls defender Kemar Lawrence, who was injured during the second half against Atlanta United Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Medical personnel place New York Red Bulls defender Kemar Lawrence on a stretcher, leaving the game after suffering an injury during the second half against Atlanta United Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United's Josef Martinez celebrates his apparent goal with Ezequiel Barco and Miguel Almiron against the New York Red Bulls Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta. the goal was overturned.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United forward Hector Villalba just misses a goal against New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Ryan Meara during the second half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United midfielder Jeff Larentowicz blocks a pass while defending against the New York Red Bulls Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Ryan Meara blocks a shot on goal as Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron looks on during the second half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New York Red Bulls midfielder Daniel Royer scores a goal on a free kick against Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan to tie the game 1-1 during the first half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New York Red Bulls midfielder (77) Daniel Royer celebrates scoring a goal on a free kick against Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan to tie the game 1-1 during the first half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United defender Greg Garza aims for the ball against New York Red Bulls midfielder Florian Valot during the first half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New York Red Bulls forward Bradley Wright-Phillips scores his second goal against Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan for a 3-1 lead during the second half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New York Red Bulls forward Bradley Wright-Phillips (far left) is mobbed by teammates after scoring his second goal against Atlanta United for a 3-1 lead during the second half Sunday, May 20, 2018, in Atlanta....Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

News Blogs

In the News

Politically Georgia Voices

County News

In the News

Blogs

Find it in Atlanta

Find It

In the News

More sports

In the News

Today's Buzz

Inside AJC

Atlanta United

Top Stories

Gallery Title