A simultaneous double moment of history is something you don't see all that often in football, but that was just what went down Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In the 20th minute, Brooks Lennon assisted Miguel Almirón. In one fell swoop, Lennon became Atlanta United's all-time leading assister and Almirón became the club's second highest MLS regular season goalscorer. It was a play, regardless of result, that will live on as an iconic moment in club history.
The goal opened up the scoring for Atlanta United on the afternoon and broke a scoreless streak that had lasted over 360 minutes. The 17s watching on at Mercedes-Benz Stadium rejoiced at the moment of history, but Nashville SC was able to find an equalizer, and the match ended 1-1.
Pedro Amador set up the goal with a roving run down the left wing. His cross into the box was aimed for Emmanuel Latte Lath, but Joe Willis came out of his goal and punched the ball away, laying out Latte Lath in the process. Play continued on, and the ball fell out to Lennon, who waited a beat before crossing the ball straight to Almirón. From there, it was a tap in.
Lennon equaled Julian Gressel's assist total at 39 earlier this season against Inter Miami March 16. Almirón's penalty goal against FC Dallas April 5 put him tied at 23 with Thiago Almada. Both players had to wait for their chance at history, and it was well worth it.
"It feels great. Individual accomplishments are always great to have, and they come with team success as well," Lennon said. "I'm hoping to get this team where it belongs and get us up into the playoff spots. As many assists as I can provide or whatever I can do for the team to get three points, I'll do."
Facing a poor run of form, Atlanta United knew things had to change, and the opportunity to make that happen at home against southern rivals Nashville was prime. A second-half goal spoiled the three points, but the result was one to build on as the 5-Stripes look to establish a rhythm and turn their season around.
