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Blaise Bourgeois·30 November 2018
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Blaise Bourgeois·30 November 2018
Entering the match, the New York Red Bulls knew they would need a miracle to overcome a 3-0 loss in the first leg of the Eastern Conference Final.
That miracle wouldn’t come.
Tim Parker’s 94th-minute goal was too little, too late, as Atlanta United’s defence held firm until the very last kick of the match to win the two-leg tie 3-1 on aggregate.
As a result, Atlanta United will host the MLS Cup final on 8 December, as they’ll hope to give manager Tata Martino a piece of silverware before he leaves the club. Martino is expected to become manager of the Mexican national team.
Up three goals, Martino allowed his team to sit back and absorb the Red Bulls attack.
Though New York owned nearly 70 per cent of the possession, they weren’t able to create any big chances until the end of the match.
Aaron Long scored in the 79th minute off a corner, however, VAR determined that Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan was fouled on the play and the goal was disallowed.
The Red Bulls wouldn’t go down without a fight, as Tim Parker brought the Red Bulls back to a 3-1 deficit. However, the match was already far out of reach.
Atlanta will host Portland Timbers on 8 December in the MLS Cup Final. Portland Timbers defeated SKC 3-2 late Thursday night.