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Match Report: Philadelphia Union Edge Atlanta United 1-0 with Baribo’s Golden Boot Strike

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19
May

Match Report: Philadelphia Union Edge Atlanta United 1-0 with Baribo’s Golden Boot Strike

May 18, 2025 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

In a gritty Eastern Conference showdown, Philadelphia Union extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches in all competitions with a narrow 1-0 away win over Atlanta United, thanks to a second-half penalty converted by Golden Boot leader Tai Baribo. The Union’s strategic squad rotation and a disciplined defensive display kept Atlanta at bay, earning them three vital points in the race for the top spot in the MLS East.

First Half: Tactical Adjustments and Early Pressure

With both teams playing midweek fixtures, rotations were expected, and Union head coach Bradley Carnell introduced several fresh legs into the starting XI—Chris Donovan, Alejandro Bedoya, and Jesus Bueno among them. Notably, Frankie Westfield started at left back, pushing Kai Wagner into a back three alongside Olwethu Makhanya and Nate Harriel, mirroring Atlanta’s formation.

The Union’s dynamic setup saw Jovan Lukic drop back into a wing-back role during defensive phases, showcasing a fluid shape unfamiliar from Carnell’s typical structure.

Both teams tested each other early. Veteran Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan denied a curling effort from Bruno Damiani, while young Andrew Rick showcased his growing confidence with a stunning full-stretch save to deny Pedro Amador.

Atlanta were forced into an early substitution in the 20th minute as Brooks Lennon limped off, replaced by Saba Lobjanidze, who brought attacking flair down the right. However, Wagner’s defensive dominance kept the Georgian winger quiet throughout the half.

Second Half: Baribo Converts, Union Lock It Down

Tai Baribo entered at halftime and immediately made an impact. His energy and movement were instrumental as Philadelphia capitalized on a counterattack in the 59th minute. A long ball from Wagner found Mikeal Uhre, whose shot was blocked by Luis Abram’s arm in the box. After a VAR review, referee Chris Penso pointed to the spot. Baribo calmly slotted home his 11th goal of the season, strengthening his claim on the MLS Golden Boot.

Shortly after the goal, Quinn Sullivan and Danley Jean Jacques came on to reinforce the midfield. The Union reverted to their familiar 4-2-2-2 formation, providing more defensive structure and allowing Wagner to regain his usual left-back role after Bedoya exited with the armband passed on.

Late in the match, a head-to-head collision between Wagner and Emmanuel Latte Lath paused play, and both sides were briefly down to 10 men. Wagner later received a yellow card after a clumsy challenge from Lobjanidze.

In the closing minutes, Atlanta pressed for an equalizer, but Andrew Rick once again came up big, stopping a dangerous effort from Derrick Williams. The Union managed the nine minutes of stoppage time with tactical substitutions and solid game management, bringing on Jakob Glesnes to close out the win.

Three Key Takeaways

  • Andrew Rick’s Breakout Month
    The teenage goalkeeper continues to impress in the absence of Andre Blake. His command of the box and improved distribution may see him groomed as the long-term successor.

  • Nate Harriel’s Positional Versatility
    Harriel’s adaptation to a central defensive role has added depth to the Union’s backline. His pace and ball control have proven valuable both defensively and in transition.

  • Top of the Table Tension
    With Columbus and Cincinnati drawing in their match, the Union’s win means they now share first place in the Eastern Conference, with goal differential putting Philadelphia narrowly ahead of Cincinnati.

Final Score:

Atlanta United 0 – 1 Philadelphia Union
⚽ Goal: Baribo (59’ pen.)

Lineups

Philadelphia Union:
Andrew Rick; Kai Wagner, Olwethu Makhanya, Nate Harriel, Frankie Westfield; Jesus Bueno (Vassilev 71’), Jovan Lukic; Chris Donovan (Baribo 46’), Alejandro Bedoya (Jean Jacques 60’); Bruno Damiani (Sullivan 60’), Mikeal Uhre (Glesnes 90+’)

Unused subs: Semmle, Rafanello, B. Bender, Cavan Sullivan

Atlanta United:
Brad Guzan; Pedro Amador (Slisz 86’), Luis Abram, Derrick Williams, Matthew Edwards; Brooks Lennon (Lobjanidze 20’), Jay Fortune, Tristan Muyumba (Mosquera 67’); Aleksey Miranchuk, Miguel Almirón, Jamal Thiare (Latte Lath 67’)

Unused subs: Cohen, Cobb, Hernandez, Klich, Reilly

Discipline Summary

  • PHI: Bedoya (21’), Damiani (49’), Wagner (89’)

  • ATL: Abram (57’), Mosquera (90+’)

Referee: Chris Penso
Attendance: 42,019
Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

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