Atlanta United lost 2-0 to Columbus Crew on Sunday Night Soccer in its final Major League Soccer match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup break, according to a May 25 announcement. Saba Lobjanidze made his 100th appearance for the club in all competitions, and Miguel Almirón returned from injury.
Columbus controlled the early stages of the match, with Daniel Gazdag missing an early header and Diego Rossi hitting the post soon after. In the 24th minute, Columbus scored first on a counterattack when Mohamed Farsi assisted Sekou Bangoura for the opening goal. The Crew extended their lead just before halftime as Farsi crossed to Rossi, who finished into the bottom left corner.
In response, Atlanta head coach Tata Martino brought on Almirón in the 60th minute for his first Major League Soccer action since April 11. Almirón quickly created a chance with a free kick that was deflected over the bar. Atlanta pressed forward in search of a goal but could not convert its opportunities; Alexey Miranchuk had one of Atlanta’s best chances in the 73rd minute but saw his shot blocked by a defender.
Atlanta United (3-9-2, 11 points) will next play Nashville SC at Geodis Park on Friday, July 17, when Major League Soccer resumes after the World Cup break. All Atlanta United matches are available on Apple TV.
Atlanta United FC operates from Atlanta, Georgia, and participates as a Major League Soccer team in the Eastern Conference. The club won MLS Cup in 2018 and also captured both U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup titles in 2019, according to the official website.
