Atlanta United vs. New York City FC, full-time, Spoils shared in Atlanta

Full-time - That’s how it ends. 2-2. Probably a fair result against a really good team.

73’ - Alex Ring has pulled the match back level with a stunning strike. It’s his first in MLS also.

57’ - Chris McCann has scored his first goal for Atlanta United! Miguel Almiron set him up with a great cross. 2-1 Atlanta.

Half-time: It’s knotted up at one in an intense battle. All to play for in the second half.

42’ - Darlington Nagbe appeared to have his first goal for Atlanta United, but VAR reviewed it and deemed that Josef Martinez was offside and impeded Johnson’s attempt at saving it. Still 1-1.

38’ - David Villa comes off the bench to convert a penalty after Michael Parkhurst committed a foul in the box. 1-1.

29’ - Greg Garza has given Atlanta United the lead after pouncing on a rebound from a Sean Johnson save.

Pre-Match: It’s matchday, ladies and gents. Today’s a big one in the Eastern conference as the top two teams entering the week meet. New York City FC come to town and something has to give. The blue side of New York is unbeaten so far this season, while Atlanta United have a perfect record at home.

It may be hyperbole to call a mid-April match very important in MLS, but if any match qualifies, it’s this one. These two teams appear to be the cream of the crop in the East and will likely be jockeying for position in the table all season. Not only are they both candidates for the Supporters’ Shield but both are vying for a spot in the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League.

The Five Stripes received a huge scare mid-week when Josef Martinez picked up a finger injury in training, but thankfully he’s okay to play. Tata Martino also has a big decision to make regarding Ezequiel Barco. The record winter signing has returned to training this week and has been deemed available for this match. The big question is, does his start or come off the bench? Get ready for #BarcoWatch to finally and officially conclude.

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:

NYCFC’s Lineup:

How to Watch

Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Kickoff Time: 6:00 p.m. ET

Available TV: FS1, FOX Deportes

Available Streaming: fuboTV (free trial), FOX Sports GO

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

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