Eastern Conference Final vs Columbus Crew (2018)

Lore & Background

Despite Atlanta's dominance in the first leg, Columbus refused to fold in the return match at Mapfre Stadium. The Crew fought valiantly, scoring a single goal in a tense second leg that kept the series alive until the final whistle. However, Atlanta's resilience and depth shone through as they held firm, winning 3-1 on aggregate to advance. This series highlighted the growing maturity of the squad under Gerardo Martino, proving they could not only score freely but also navigate high-pressure knockout scenarios.

In Their Own Story

The air inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium was thick with anticipation and the scent of charcoal from tailgates still echoing in the parking lot. He struck the ball with ruthless efficiency, sending it rocketing past the keeper into the top corner. The stadium erupted, a sea of red and black rising in unison. It was more than a goal; it was a declaration that Atlanta United had arrived as a force to be reckoned with.

Reader's Guide

The series began on November 1, 2018, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium against the Columbus Crew. Atlanta secured a decisive 3-0 victory in the first leg, driven entirely by Josef Martínez's hat-trick. Key plays included Martínez's clinical finishing and the defensive solidity that kept Columbus scoreless at home. The second leg on November 7 saw Columbus score three goals, but Atlanta maintained their aggregate lead to advance. For the fanbase, this victory was emotional validation of the club's rapid rise from expansion team to championship contender.

Did You Know?

• Josef Martínez scored two goals in the series, becoming a key figure in Atlanta United's first Eastern Conference Final triumph.
• This series propelled Atlanta United into their first-ever MLS Cup Final, which they would go on to win against Portland Timbers.
• The aggregate score of 3-1 was a tightly contested series that showcased Atlanta's defensive grit alongside their attacking flair.
• Gerardo Martino's tactical setup during this series is often cited as a turning point for the team's playoff identity.