Argentine Thiago Almada scored the only goal and Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Gudiño made sure it was enough for Atlanta United to beat Orlando City 1-0 in MLS on Wednesday.
Almada scored after a wonderful block game with Andrew Gutman in the 71st minute. The 21-year-old midfielder received the ball and dribbled into the box with a couple of dribbles, before beating Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with a forehand.
For his part, Gudiño delivered at least three exceptional saves.
Atlanta reached 39 points, two less than the playoff zone in the Eastern Conference. Orlando remained at 42 units and ranks fifth.
Additionally, Orlando’s defeat secured playoff rankings for the New York Red Bulls, who will perform in the postseason for the 13th consecutive time. The New York team is the third that already has a guaranteed ticket to the East.
The others are Philadelphia and Montreal.
On Saturday, Atlanta hosts the Philadelphia Union, while Orlando hosts Toronto.
Also on Wednesday, Austin beat Real Salt Lake 3-0, securing his first playoff appearance in history.
Additionally, the Vancouver Whitecaps beat the Los Angeles Galaxy 3-0 and the Colorado Rapids beat the San Jose Earthquakes 2-1.
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