Andrew Gutman was named to the MLS Team of the Matchday for his performance in Atlanta United’s 3-1 win over D.C. United on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The defender contributed to two goals in the win that extended Atlanta’s unbeaten streak to six matches.
With this honor, Gutman earned his first appearance and became the seventh player to represent Atlanta this season on the MLS Team of the Matchday. He recorded his third goal and third assist of the season in Saturday’s match.
“We know what Andrew can provide in the final third,” head coach Gonzalo Pineda said. “It’s just a matter of volume chances that he can get, and then he’s going to score and assist many times. Kudos to Andrew, he’s doing a good job.”
In the opening minutes of the second half with the score tied 1-1, midfielder Thiago Almada drew multiple defenders at the top of the box before threading a pass to Gutman making a run inside. Gutman blasted a shot toward the back post, and it took a deflection off D.C.’s goalkeeper into the back of the net for the lead.
Gutman helped Atlanta secure the win with an assist to Tyler Wolff in the 73rd minute. Giorgos Giakoumakis played a ball to Gutman making the same run down the left side. This time Gutman’s cross made its way past three D.C. defenders to Wolff sliding into the box for the finish.
An assist on Wolff’s goal was also attributed to Giakoumakis, who earned a spot on the bench of this edition of MLS Team of the Matchday. The Greek striker opened the scoring for Atlanta in the 13th minute with a finish from an acute angle after beating the goalkeeper outside the box. The assist and goal were his first and 10th of the season, respectively.
Gutman, Giakoumakis and the rest of Atlanta United will take a short break before returning to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, June 21. The 5-Stripes will face Eastern Conference opponent New York City FC for their second matchup of the season. Secure your tickets today!
