2020 Supporters' Shield

Lore & Background

The 2018 campaign was a masterclass in consistency. The team displayed an attacking flair rarely seen in MLS, led by the prolific Josef Martínez who also claimed the Golden Boot and MVP honors simultaneously. This Shield victory validated the club's ambitious project from its inception, proving they could sustain excellence over a grueling schedule rather than just peaking for playoffs.

The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium became legendary during this run. The 'A-Train' fans created a cauldron that unsettled visiting sides and propelled the home team to crucial victories. This trophy was not merely about points; it was a cultural statement that Atlanta United belonged among the league's elite, setting a standard for future squads to emulate in their pursuit of regular-season supremacy.

In Their Own Story

The final whistle echoed through Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the scoreboard froze. The math had been simple all season: consistency wins championships. As the players embraced on the grass, the weight of the Shield was already felt in the roar of the crowd. It wasn't just a trophy; it was proof that Atlanta's dream had become reality.

Reader's Guide

Atlanta United secured their first Supporters' Shield during the 2018 MLS season, finishing atop the league table with a record-breaking 79 points at the time. This achievement capped off a year where they also won the U.S. Open Cup, completing a historic double.

Manager Gerardo Martino implemented a high-pressing system that overwhelmed opponents throughout the regular season. Josef Martínez was instrumental, scoring goals and providing leadership on the pitch. The team's home record at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was particularly formidable, often serving as the launchpad for their title charge.

This Shield remains a singular achievement in club history regarding regular-season dominance. It established a benchmark for performance that subsequent seasons aimed to reach, highlighting the importance of consistency over the long MLS campaign.

Did You Know?

• Josef Martínez won the Golden Boot and MVP awards in the same season as the Shield.
• The 79 points set an MLS single-season record at the time of victory.
• This was Atlanta United's first major trophy since joining MLS in 2017.
• They secured the title with a perfect home record during key parts of the campaign.