The energy didn't stop after Atlanta United's first team faced Nashville SC Saturday afternoon. Atlanta United Unified took on Nashville SC Unified in their first match of the 2025 campaign. Fans stayed to cheer on a 5-Stripes squad that continued its unbeaten run from last season with a 0-0 draw Saturday afternoon.
The squads played two 30-minute halves. Atlanta United made a late push, and both teams showed fight down the stretch in a hard-fought draw.
Atlanta United first team players came out of the locker room quickly after their match to watch the Unified team's match. Unified Ambassadors Brad Guzan and Jay Fortune, as well as others, stood by on the sideline to cheer the 5-Stripes on.
The Unified squad got the full Atlanta United matchday experience, signing the Golden Spike on their way into the stadium and greeting fans.
The energy from the 17s was palpable, as fans sang traditional Atlanta United chants and even had Unified specific ones. Fans made a tifo for the Unified match as well, reading "Forged by the 5-Stripes".
About Unified:
Each Unified team is made up of a diverse group of both Special Olympics athletes, individuals with developmental disabilities, and partners, individuals without developmental disabilites. The squads are allowed to freely substitute, giving both rosters a chance to showcase their talent.
The Unified sides train, travel and compete in matches just as the first teams do. It's a truly inclusive space that brings together athletes from all over the Americas.
Atlanta United Unified will play three more matches this season and will be the first Unified team ever to travel internationally when they face Toronto FC Unified July 12.
Up next:
Atlanta United Unified's next match will be on the road in Austin. The squad will travel to Texas alongside the first team and will again play after the conclusion of the first team match, which kicks off Wednesday, May 14 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
