Argentina’s Thiago Almada scored the only goal and Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Gudiño made sure it was enough for Atlanta United to beat Orlando City 1-0 in MLS on Wednesday.
Almada scored following a wonderful wall play with Andrew Gutman in the 71st minute. The 21-year-old midfielder received the ball back and dribbled into the area with a pair of dribbles, before beating Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with a forehand.
For his part, Gudiño lavished at least three outstanding saves.
Atlanta reached 39 points, two shy of the Eastern Conference playoff qualifying zone. Orlando stayed at 42 units and ranks fifth.
Also, the defeat of Orlando assured the classification to the playoffs for the Red Bulls of New York, who will appear in the postseason for the 13th consecutive time. The New York team is the third that already has its ticket guaranteed in the East.
The others are Philadelphia and Montreal.
On Saturday, Atlanta hosts the Philadelphia Union, while Orlando hosts Toronto.
Also Wednesday, Austin thrashed Real Salt Lake 3-0, securing its first playoff appearance in history.
In addition, the Vancouver Whitecaps beat the Los Angeles Galaxy 3-0, and the Colorado Rapids beat the San Jose Earthquakes 2-1.
