Traoré’s stoppage-time strike lifts NYCFC past Atlanta
Bénie Traoré scored in stoppage time to give New York City FC a 2-1 win over Atlanta United at Citi Field on October 28, keeping NYCFC’s playoff hopes alive.
Traoré struck in the fifth minute of added time, scoring from outside the box to settle a match that had been level since the 88th minute. The victory ended Atlanta’s postseason hopes and kept NYCFC in contention for an Eastern Conference playoff place with two matches remaining.
Nicolás Fernández put New York ahead in the 70th minute with a free kick from 28 yards. He reached 16 goals this season, ending a seven-match stretch without one. Atlanta equalized when Breel Embolo headed in after Fafà Picault’s effort hit the post. Embolo has scored four times in his first 10 MLS appearances.
Atlanta controlled much of the opening period, but Matt Freese made three first-half saves to keep the visitors from taking the lead. The teams went into halftime scoreless. NYCFC improved after the break, with quick counterattacks helping it create more opportunities.
NYCFC had gone five matches without a win and had not previously won at Citi Field this season. Freese finished with five saves, while Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos made four. The teams drew 2-2 when they met in Atlanta in September.
NYCFC hosts CF Montreal on Saturday, while Atlanta is scheduled to host Toronto FC on Sunday. New York needs results in its remaining fixtures to reach the postseason.