MONTREAL (AP) — Atlanta United eliminated Montreal 5-4 on penalties in the first game of the MLS playoffs on Tuesday, after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
It was the second away playoff win in Atlanta United’s history and the first since November 4, 2018 against New York City FC. United will begin a three-game series on Friday against Supporters’ Shield winner Inter Miami as the top team of the regular season.
Lionel Messi’s team Miami will host a playoff game for the first time in club history.
Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan managed to save Tom Pearce’s penalty, Montreal’s second attempt in the shootout. Saba Lobjanidze sealed the victory for United.
Atlanta led 2-0 at halftime before former United Venezuelan star Josef Martinez scored two goals in the second half to tie the game.
Brooks Lennon scored his first goal of the season when he headed in a cross from Pedro Amador in the 29th minute. Atlanta defender Stian Gregersen made it 2-0 in the 44th when he headed in a free kick from Alexey Miranchuk.
Martínez brought Montreal up 2-1 in the 63rd minute and then received the maximum penalty in the 87th minute. The Venezuelan scored his eighth goal in the last six games.
