Atlanta United Unified brought their energy, and undefeated streak, home to Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sunday night for the first time since May. The Unified team has been all over the continent this season —with trips to Toronto, Austin and Houston in an action-packed season. The 5-Stripes closed out their 2025 campaign with a 2-0 win, continuing a years long unbeaten run.
"We are the A", "Vamos Atlanta" and other chants rung throughout MBS as the teams began their match. Dee Harden made a clean save to his right in the fourth minute. Both teams were roving forward in an end-to-end match that was played on a full-length field for the first time this season.
Teams got hydration breaks midway through each 30-minute half. After the first 15, both squads had quality looks at goal, but nothing came to pass.
First Team players stayed to watch the Unified team's final match of 2025. Brad Guzan and Jay Fortune, the First Team ambassadors for Unified this season, were involved on the sideline and in the coach's box. Other players like Matt Edwards and Will Reilly stayed to cheer the teams on as well.
Xavier Hairston had the 5-Stripes' best look of the first half in the 27th minute, a shot that would've found its way into the net if not for a good save from Toronto's keeper. The scores were level, 0-0 at the break.
To start the second half, Alex Evans found a breakaway. With three Toronto FC defenders trailing, he outran the pursuit and slotted the chance away to make it 1-0 in the 32nd minute.
Hairston almost had a second in the 45th minute with a beautifully struck free kick that careened off the post.
The all-time leading goalscorer in Atlanta United Unified history found his moment in the 52nd minute Sunday. Hairston was set up by a lovely cross from Savion Brown, his childhood best friend. Of course, they had to celebrate with a handshake. The strike was clinical, and the goal was his 17th in his career with the team, giving the 5-Stripes a 2-0 lead on the night.
There were more great looks, as Luke Edwards hit a cheeky chip that just missed into the roof of the net. The second half was a convincing display, and the joy on the pitch was vivid. The final whistle sounded, and cheers and smiles were abound. Atlanta United Unified triumphed 2-0, completing yet another undefeated season with a win.
About Unified:
Each Unified team is made up of a diverse group of both Special Olympics athletes, individuals with developmental disabilities, and partners, individuals without developmental disabilites. The squads are allowed to freely substitute, giving both rosters a chance to showcase their talent.
The Unified sides train, travel and compete in matches just as the first teams do. It's a truly inclusive space that brings together athletes from all over the Americas.
Atlanta United Unified will return for the 2026 campaign next season! Stay tuned to see where Unified will head next.
