Three matches, an MLS debut, a FIFA window and three matches full of incredible plays, it truly was March madness for Atlanta United.
Moments of the Month
The month kicked off with our first away match of the season. The team traveled to Commerce City to face the Colorado Rapids. Aiden McFadden made his MLS debut during the match after signing a short-term agreement with the first team. The 23-year-old defender has been a staple in the second team and was their top goal scorer last season. Following the Colorado match, the 5-Stripes saw another MLS debut when Thiago Almada came in as a substitution in the 56th minute in the 2-1 win against Charlotte FC. When describing his first match at MBS, Almada said he felt goosebumps.
Save of the Month
He’s big, he’s bald, he’s… earned our save of the month.There was a lot of buzz before our first match against Charlotte FC. The expansion team was coming off three consecutive losses and arrived to Mercedes-Benz Stadium looking for their first win, but Brad Guzan put those hopes away with an incredible save in the 40 minute. Ben Bender sent a cross to Karol Swiderski, who headed the ball at the Atlanta goal but was stopped by Guzan. Guzan’s big save helped Atlanta win 2-1.
Goal of the Month
Making his debut with the club was just the first step for Thiago Almada. Atlanta was down 3-1 against Montréal in the 84th minute until Almada scored Atlanta’s second goal to revive hope for the home team. Almada dribbled past two defenders and shot the ball just outside of the box to score both his first club and MLS goal. Atlanta went on to tie the match 3-3.
Performer of the Month
As no surprise to anyone, Mr. Reliable himself, Brooks Lennon, won Performer of the Month for March. Lennon has had an incredible month with 10 chances created, third-most in the league, and 11 crosses, the second most this season. Lennon also scored a jaw-dropping direct free kick goal that made Mercedes-Benz Stadium explode in cheers as Atlanta United came back from behind and tied Montréal 3-3 in stoppage time.
eMLS Trophies
To finish out the month Atlanta United added two more trophies to their repertoire. eSports superstar, Paulo Neto, won the eMLS cup on March 13 at Austin City Limits. Neto faced off against D.C. United’s KingCJ0 in the final round of the eMLS Cup and won with a 5-3 aggregate score. After winning the eMLS cup, Paulo teamed up Vini Leiva to win the FIFA 2022 Masters Cup. The Brazilian duo defeated the Inter Milan eMLS team in a 2-1 aggregate final score.
There are more matches to see and more moments to highlight in April, don’t miss out on any the action and download our calendar today.
