Thiaré Leads the Line, Almirón Converts as ATLUTD Tie 1–1

Pre-Game

Coming into this match, Atlanta United were already eliminated from playoff contention, with five fixtures remaining on the calendar. For the squad, these games were no longer about the standings but more about auditions — five chances to prove their worth - either for Atlanta United, elsewhere in MLS, or abroad. Ronny Deila named a lineup similar to the one which lost to Columbus: Hibbert in goal, Hernández, Gregersen, Berrocal, and Amador across the back, Slisz and Alzate anchoring midfield, with Miranchuk, Saba, and captain Almirón supporting Thiaré up top. The bench featured experience mixed with youth - Guzan and Lennon, alongside Brennan, Mihaj, and Latte Lath. Attendance was modest, tempered by light thunder, rain, and heavy traffic. Those whoade it to Mercedes-Benz were the hardcore supporters, committed to backing the team even with little left to play for in 2025.

First Half

Atlanta opened brightly, with Saba nearly threading a through ball to Thiaré and Amador swinging in crosses. But San Diego quickly imposed themselves. Their high line, crisp triangles, and patient passing frustrated Atlanta. Several sequences saw San Diego simply knock the ball around while Atlanta stood and watched. Gregersen briefly went down needing treatment, raising worries about his durability, but he returned to play on. Miguel Almirón showed flashes — nutmegging defenders, taking hits, and trying to pull the strings — but Atlanta lacked cutting edge. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute. Alzate was dispossessed deep in his own half, gifting San Diego a simple chance which they converted for 1–0. From there, the visitors toyed with Atlanta, slowing the tempo and moving in unison when they attacked. Thiaré worked tirelessly up front, and Miranchuk sent in a few dangerous crosses, but San Diego’s control was clear. At halftime, the stats looked even, but the eye test was different: San Diego were the better side.

Second Half

Atlanta came out of the locker room early, but San Diego picked up where they left off — deliberate passing triangles, dragging Atlanta’s press out of shape. Gradually, though, the Five Stripes found opportunities. Slisz distributed with more precision, Amador and Thiaré tested the box, and Alzate nearly scored from a corner, rattling the crossbar. The key moment came in the 61st minute. Thiaré was taken down in the box by Dos Santos — this time the referee pointed to the spot. Almirón stepped up, cool under pressure, and buried the penalty despite a touch from the keeper’s glove. 1-1. The goal opened the game up immediately. The sides exchanging end-to-end attacks, with Hibbert twice denying San Diego. Gregersen surged forward on a daring run, showing his growing confidence. However the subs disrupted Atlanta’s rhythm. Brennan, Latte Lath, Lennon offered little spark in attack. Muyumba introduction for Miranchuk was costly for momentum. Alexey’s removal left a creative void. Tristan failed to provide defensive cover, leaving passing lanes open and neglecting his marks. Instead of locking down Atlanta’s midfield, his presence invited pressure.

San Diego pressed late, forcing dangerous free kicks and breakaways, but Hibbert and the back line held firm. After six minutes of stoppage time, the whistle blew on a frantic 1-1 draw.

Post-Game Recap

Good

• Hibbert: Commanding in goal, with two highlight saves keeping Atlanta alive. His distribution was sharp, and he showed leadership throughout. More importantly, this was a strong response after conceding five against Columbus - a bounce-back performance that reinforces his potential as along term number 1.
• Slisz: Elevated the midfield when in possession. Atlanta look far more composed and structured with him dictating play.

Really Good

• Gregersen: Rock-solid defensively, breaking up attacks, and even initiating attacks with bold runs. His composure stood out.
• Almirón: A captain’s display — constantly involved, linking attacks, and converting the penalty under pressure. His energetic display drove the team forward.

Man of the Match

• Thiaré: Worked relentlessly up top. His physicality and movement stretched San Diego’s backline, and he drew the crucial penalty. He is Atlanta’s most reliable attacking option right now. And his performances are strengthening his case for being a starter.

Needs to Step Up

• Saba: Too focused on staying open, not enough defensive work. His lack of marking left Atlanta exposed. A frustrating outing.
• Muyumba: Failed to mark defensively after coming on, and offered little in possession. Instead of stabilizing play, he tilted momentum towards San Diego. Hard to justify his minutes.
• The subs (Brennan, Latte Lath, Lennon): Minimal impact despite the game being there for the taking. Fire was needed, but a spark never arrived.

📌 After the final whistle, Atlanta players now only have four games left in 2025 to prove they deserve to wear the crest in 2026. The badge demands commitment, and the fans expect nothing less.