2018 League Double (Shield and Cup)

Lore & Background

In 2018, Atlanta United did not just play soccer; they rewrote the narrative of expansion teams. The Supporters' Shield victory was a testament to their relentless consistency throughout the grueling MLS schedule, where they amassed a points total that set a new standard for offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Josef Martínez's record-breaking goal-scoring run provided the engine for this regular-season dominance, earning him the league's top scorer title while dragging his teammates toward the summit.

The journey to the Double culminated in one of the most intense MLS Cup Finals ever witnessed. Facing a resilient Portland Timbers side, Atlanta United found themselves trailing late in extra time. The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was electric, bordering on suffocating for the visitors. In a moment that would become folklore, the team mounted a stunning comeback to win 2-1, with goals from Thiago Almada (actually Josef Martínez and Gerso) - correction: goals by Josef Martínez and Gerson - sealing the trophy. This victory was not merely a win; it was a validation of the 'Red and Black' movement that had swept Atlanta.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the turf at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the clock ticked past the 120th minute. The roar of the crowd was no longer just noise; it was a physical force pressing against the Portland Timbers defense. Josef Martínez, exhausted but eyes locked on the goal, received a loose ball in the box. He didn't hesitate. A single touch to control, a second to place, and the net rippled. The stadium erupted into a sea of red and black flags waving in unison. It wasn't just a goal; it was the final piece of a puzzle that had been built over months of grinding matches. As the confetti cannons fired, mixing with the falling rain, Gerardo Martino embraced his players, knowing they had achieved what no expansion team had ever done: the perfect double.

Reader's Guide

The 2018 season began with high expectations but exceeded them by securing the Supporters' Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. Atlanta United finished the league campaign with a dominant points total, driven largely by the prolific scoring of Josef Martínez, who shattered MLS single-season goal records.

Key contributors included goalkeeper Brad Guzan, whose experience stabilized the backline, and midfield maestro Thiago Almada (correction: Alejandro Pozuelo and Gerson) - correction: Gerson de Souza and Alejandro Pozuelo provided crucial creativity. The team's ability to score at will allowed them to overcome defensive lapses and maintain a consistent winning streak throughout the year.

The season concluded with the MLS Cup Final against Portland Timbers. After falling behind in extra time, Atlanta United scored two goals in the dying moments to win 2-1. This victory secured their first-ever league title and completed the rare double of Shield and Cup in one season.

Did You Know?

• Josef Martínez became the first player in MLS history to score 30+ goals in a single season during this campaign.
• Atlanta United is the only expansion team in MLS history to win both the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup in their second or third year of existence.
• The 2018 MLS Cup Final victory was achieved after being down by one goal late in extra time, marking a dramatic turnaround.
• Gerardo Martino became the first coach in club history to lead Atlanta United to both major domestic trophies.