There are fewer things sweeter than a victory goal against a rival. The only thing sweeter could be doing it for your first MLS goal.
In the 55th minute, Homegrown Jay Fortune scored the lone long-range goal for Atlanta United in their derby against Charlotte FC. He sealed a much-needed road win for his club in the process.
"I think he’s got a bright future, he’s been progressing very well, pushing the guys in front of him and he earned himself a nice goal tonight," said interim head coach Rob Valentino after the Saturday evening match. "Honestly the goal is the type of goal, and this is the type of team I’d like us to be."
MLS recognized his accomplishment as Fortune was named to the MLS Team of the Matchday announced Tuesday afternoon. This is Fortune's first appearance on MLS Team of the Matchday. He joins Brad Guzan, Saba Lobjanidze, Stian Gregersen, Jamal Thiaré, Caleb Wiley and Giorgos Giakoumakis as Atlanta United players that have earned the honor so far this season.
"It felt great, long time coming, I think. But I just had a feeling it was coming soon and no better place than in my home state. I was born in North Carolina, my parents were here so it was great to score in front of them," said Fortune after the match.
Fortune’s growth as a player has been noticeable throughout this season. With injuries, international call-ups, and transfers, Atlanta United has given a young player like Fortune the chance to see more consistent minutes on the pitch.
On July 21, 2022, Atlanta United signed Fortune to a Homegrown contract through the 2024 season with multiple additional option years. Fortune, who made his debut with the Trinidad and Tobago national team in 2021, joined the Atlanta United Academy in 2018. Fortune's journey really started with his professional debut with Atlanta United 2 in July of 2020. Fortune, much like scoring his first MLS goal, made his MLS debut against Charlotte FC in 2023. He went on to make 14 appearances for the club during that season. Fortune has already played 20 games for the 5-Stripes this season.
After the win against Charlotte, Atlanta sits at ninth in the Eastern Conference with 31 points. Their next two matches will be a Mercedes-Benz Stadium against Nashville SC and Inter Miami FC.
