Win streak? Check. Clean Sheet? Check. OFYO? Big Check.
Atlanta United got the job done on Wednesday as they defeated Orlando City SC 1-0 at Exploria Stadium in a game that represented a big step towards making an appearance in the playoffs a reality.
Despite the downpour and weather delay, Atlanta was able to brave the Lions' den and put on a great performance against their longtime rivals. Gonzalo Pineda's lineup was exactly the same as the one used on Saturday against Toronto with a 4-2-3-1 and Dom Dwyer leading the line up front.
Atlanta started creating chances early with some very close calls in the first half including a shot by Luiz Araujo that was cleared off the goal line. Despite the efforts from both sides, the lone goal wouldn't come until the 72nd minute when Thiago Almada linked up with Andrew Gutman to get into the box and put a shot past Pedro Gallese. That marked his sixth goal of the season and it put the Five Stripes up 1-0.
Although the end got a bit nervy, Atlanta's defense (somehow) held up and the team earned 3 much-needed points that make its playoff hopes at least a bit more conceivable.
Unfortunately, the joy might be short-lived as Atlanta United faces the league leader, Philadelphia Union, on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with kickoff at 3 PM.