Today, Atlanta United would've been hosting it's third MLS home game of the season — a rematch of the 2018 MLS Cup Atlanta won over Portland.

MLS is still exploring ways to continue the 2020 season, halted by the coronavirus pandemic. Before moving forward, let's look back:

Atlanta United waited six months to play at glistening new Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Twenty-four games into its inaugural season, the Five Stripes entered the Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, matchup against Dallas with a 10-6-8 record.  It was the start to a string of six consecutive home games at its new home.

With goals from Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Josef Martinez and Greg Garza, the Five Stripes defeated Dallas 3-0 before a sold-out crowd of 45,314.

Atlanta United's starting lineup in its first game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sept. 10, 2017, included Miguel Almiron (10).
icon to expand image

"It was exciting. We were all looking forward to this game for a while," then-team captain Michael Parkhurst said. "It lived up to expectations. The crowd was fantastic. The performance was fantastic. It was a very good evening to start things off here."

The electric atmosphere didn't let off. Atlanta shattered several MLS attendance records its first year.

Atlanta United hosted 55,000 at its inaugural game at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

The first time the Mercedes-Benz Stadium upper deck was opened 70,425 fans attended — the most ever for an MLS regular-season game.

When the 2020 season reopens, how quickly will you go back?

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta United defender Pedro Amador runs with the ball against Columbus on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Amador later scored in the 46th minute. (Taylor McLaughlin/Atlanta United)

Credit: Taylor McLaughlin/Atlanta United

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com