Atlanta United FC

Martinez completes comeback to send Atlanta United to MLS playoffs

Atlanta United v Seattle Sounders FC SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MAY 23: Josef Martinez #7 of Atlanta United controls the ball against the Seattle Sounders during the second half at Lumen Field on May 23, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

CINCINNATI — After it missed the playoffs last year for the first time in its young history, Atlanta United is returning to the Major League Soccer postseason.

Miles Robinson and Josef Martinez scored nine minutes apart in the second half to lead United to a 2-1 comeback over FC Cincinnati on Decision Day.

Atlanta United earned the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference and will face No. 4 seed New York FC. The full schedule will be released after the Western Conference matchups are decided Sunday night.

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Zico Bailey gave Cincinnati the early lead in the 21st minute. Atlanta finally found an equalizer in the 70th minute behind Robinson’s header off Ezequiel Barco corner. It was the first career goal for Robinson.

Nine minutes later, Martinez gave United its first lead of the game. Martinez hit a gorgeous volley off a Cincinnati clearance attempt off the 6-yard box, in what should be a Goal of the Week contender.

Here is a look at the final standings for the Western Conference:

  1. New England (22-7-5): 73 points
  2. Philadelphia (14-12-8): 54 points
  3. Nashville (12-18-4): 54 points
  4. New York City FC (14-9-11): 51 points
  5. Atlanta United (13-12-9): 51 points
  6. Orlando City (13-12-9): 51 points
  7. New York Red Bulls (13-9-12) 48 points

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