A duo of South Americans had their hand in all 3 of Atlanta United's goals Saturday night, leading to 3 crucial points.
Miguel Almirón and Tomás Jacob were named to the Matchday 4 edition of the MLS Team of the Matchday today. The two combined for four goal contributions in Atlanta United's 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union Saturday night. The duo of South Americans earn their first Team of the Matchday shouts of the 2026 season, and Emmanuel Latte Lath also appears on the bench.
On a night where Miguel Almirón broke Atlanta United's all-time assists record with a hattrick of them, his demeanor postmatch was just as unselfish as his play during it.
"I'm always going to highlight the work of my teammates," Almirón said in Spanish after the match. "I think we're all getting used to the system that Tata [Martino] wants to play, and this is the path forward."
Almirón's role in the attack was undeniable, even apart from the moments that did result in goals. The forward has found another gear since the 5-Stripes returned home March 7, and Saturday proved his free-flowing play can lead to results.
You wouldn't have guessed that Tomás Jacob was playing in just his fourth match for the club Saturday. The versatile fullback showcased his stellar workrate on multiple occasions, sprinting the length of the pitch to put crosses in or, in one instance, find the back of the net. His finish at the back post was the result of pure effort and positioning.
Latte Lath's first goal of the 2026 season opened the scoring, but his match was more than just that finish. Notice how he intentionally left the ball for Jacob on the second goal instead of going at it himself. It was one of many selfless moments that defined the night for the 5-Stripes, fluid attacking football that was lethal on the break.
The players have their plaudits, but they're just getting started this season. Though the 3 points were important, the 5-Stripes know one result won't accomplish what they want to this season. Consistency will be the next thing to capture.
"We shouldn't stay on this game," Almirón said. "One can enjoy the victory, but we have to keep working to improve. I believe this team can give much more."
