After a dominant 3-1 victory over Inter Miami FC, winger Saba Lobjanidze, defender Stian Gregersen, and head coach Gonzalo Pineda all made MLS Team of the Matchday. This is the first time that Lobjanidze and Gregersen have made the team.
Saba Lobjanidze
It was the brace from Saba Lobjanidze that got Atlanta United on the board in the 44th minute of the first half and extended their lead to 2-0 early in the second half. The first goal was assisted by Tristan Muyumba, who made the bench for Team of the Matchday, and came just from outside the box into the top left corner of the net.
On the second goal, Lobjanidze received a pass from Brooks Lennon on the right touchline and curled the shot to the bottom corner of the goal. He averaged a speed of 20.5 miles per hour against Miami.
Lobjanidze is expected to represent his home country of Georgia in the coming 2024 UEFA EURO.
Stian Gregersen
Since his return, Stian Gregersen’s presence on Atlanta United’s backline has paid in dividends. Gregersen missed time due to a meniscus injury back in March and was slotted back into the lineup in early May. He logged minutes in previous matches, but he made his first MLS start since the injury on May 18 against Nashville SC. Standing at 6’4, Gregersen brings an imposing and physical style to the lineup.
“He is someone who reads the game well, has a presence, and helps command the back line through organization and leadership,” said Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocaengra when Gregersen signed with the 5-Stripes.
Gonzalo Pineda
Trusting the process has been the motto for Atlanta United during this stretch of play. A lesson sent top down from bench boss Gonzalo Pineda to the rest of the team. Atlanta United deployed a different look for the match against Inter Miami.
“I wanted to have the possession; that was one of the main reasons,” said Pineda at the post-match press conference when asked about the formation change. “I wanted the buildup to be very clear. Understanding that (Lionel) Messi and (Luis) Suarez would be up top… I think the (Atlanta) players did well with possession, without possession, and in transition.”
