Minnesota United vs. Atlanta United, full-time: Atlanta hang on for gritty win

Full-time: Jeff Larentowicz got hurt. Atlanta touched the ball maybe five total times. But it doesn’t matter. They hang on against strong odds for the 1-0 win and a tough three points away from home.

Half-time: Atlanta’s early goal still holds up, but there’s a lot of work to do in the second half to see out this result with a man disadvantage.

‘38: LGP Sent Off: Leandro Gonzalez Pirez has been sent off after receiving his second yellow card of the match before half-time. LGP shoulder barged a Minnesota United attacker into the advertising boards to draw his second yellow and an early shower. Atlanta will now have to see the remainder of the match out with 10 men.

‘15 - Minnesota United 0, Atlanta United 1: Well, that was quick. The Five Stripes have taken the lead after a bizarre opening goal. Coming from a direct corner kick, Tito Villalba’s initial header was saved off the crossbar before the follow-up somehow ended up in the back of the net for what will likely be ruled an own goal.

Pre-Match: The international break is finally over for Atlanta United. They resume their schedule with a trip to Minnesota, a place that hasn’t been informed that Winter is over. It’s predicted to be a very cold night for this match, something that’s not unfamiliar for the Five Stripes.

Last season’s 6-1 snow massacre seems like ages ago for both sides. Minnesota United is much improved, especially on the back line, since that day. Atlanta United is also a completely different team who’s gone through many trials and tribulations. To expect a repeat of that famous day would probably be setting yourself up for massive disappointment. This is will be a very tough result to earn for Atlanta.

Tata Martino will be without a few players in this one. Both Andrew Carleton (Strep Throat) and Franco Escobar (Concussion) are unavailable as is Ezequiel Barco. Brandon Vazquez has recovered from his injury and should be available.

Will we see Minnesota’s first-ever Designated Player, Darwin Quintero in action? Will Atlanta United weather the weather and earn their third straight win? Let’s find out.

Note: We’re trying something new with our match threads this year. We’ll be updating the post with updates of goals and big moments as they happen. Check back every so often during the match for highlights and commentary.

Atlanta United’s Lineup:

Minnesota United’s Lineup:

How to Watch

Venue: TCF Bank Stadium

Kickoff Time: 8:00 p.m. ET

Available TV: FOX Sports South

Available Streaming: fuboTV (free trial), FOX Sports GO, MLS Live (Outside Local Viewing Area)

Available Radio: 92.9 The Game (English), AT&T Countdown to Kickoff (FB Live/Periscope), La Mejor 1600 AM (Spanish)

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