Atlanta United 2017 Schedule: Relive Their Historic First Year
Reliving the Inaugural Magic: Atlanta United's 2017 Journey
Hey guys, remember that electric feeling? Atlanta United's 2017 journey wasn't just another expansion team's first year; it was a phenomenon, a vibrant explosion of soccer passion that reshaped the landscape of MLS forever. When the league announced Atlanta would get a team, there was buzz, sure, but nobody, and I mean nobody, could have predicted the absolute magic that unfolded during their inaugural season. This wasn't just about a team playing games; it was about a city falling head over heels for the beautiful game, led by a charismatic coach, Tata Martino, and a squad of exciting, dynamic players like Josef Martinez, Miguel Almirón, and Héctor Villalba. They didn't just play; they entertained, bringing an attacking flair that quickly became their signature, captivating hearts from the very first whistle.
From the very first whistle, it was clear that Atlanta United wasn't here to just make up the numbers. They were here to make a statement, to challenge the established order, and most importantly, to ignite a fanbase unlike anything MLS had seen. The Atlanta United 2017 schedule wasn't just a list of dates and opponents; it was a roadmap to a legendary beginning, a series of opportunities for this nascent team to prove their worth. Each match was a chance to build identity, to forge a connection with the passionate supporters who flocked to Bobby Dodd Stadium and later, the magnificent Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The city embraced the team with open arms, and the players responded by giving their all, creating an atmosphere that was both intimidating for opponents and exhilarating for fans. This unique bond became a cornerstone of their early success and a defining characteristic of the club.
The season wasn't without its challenges, of course. Being an expansion team means facing seasoned veterans, traveling extensively, and building chemistry on the fly. Yet, this group, under Martino’s astute guidance, seemed to thrive on it. They quickly developed a reputation for high-octane offense, relentless pressing, and an unwavering spirit. The early away games, the anticipation of the first home match, the mid-season grind, and the nail-biting playoff push – every single moment woven into the fabric of the Atlanta United 2017 schedule contributed to what became an unforgettable narrative. This deep dive into their inaugural season's schedule isn't just a look back at results; it's a celebration of how a new team captured hearts, shattered expectations, and laid the foundation for a dynasty. It's about understanding why that first year means so much to Five Stripes fans and how it perfectly set the stage for everything that came next. Get ready to relive the excitement, guys!
The Full Atlanta United 2017 Schedule Breakdown: Key Matches & Milestones
Alright, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of the Atlanta United 2017 schedule because, honestly, it’s a masterclass in how to launch an MLS team. We're talking about a season that was jam-packed with unforgettable moments, from their very first goal to securing a playoff berth in their inaugural season. The journey kicked off on March 5th, 2017, with an away clash against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. While the 2-1 loss wasn't the dream start in terms of points, Yamil Asad's historic first goal for the club immediately gave fans something to cheer about. It was a sign of the attacking intent that would define their season, demonstrating that even in defeat, this team would play with passion and purpose. Just a week later, on March 12th, came the highly anticipated first home game at Bobby Dodd Stadium against fellow expansion side Minnesota United FC. This match wasn't just a game; it was a declaration. Atlanta United absolutely annihilated Minnesota 6-1, with Josef Martinez bagging the club's first-ever hat-trick. The atmosphere was electric, the crowd was record-breaking, and suddenly, everyone knew Atlanta was serious business, establishing a formidable home advantage right from the start.
The Atlanta United 2017 schedule continued to challenge the team with a mix of Eastern and Western Conference foes. They quickly established a formidable home record, turning Bobby Dodd into a fortress. Throughout spring and early summer, we saw flashes of brilliance, like a thrilling 3-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders on April 15th and a dominant 4-1 win against the Houston Dynamo on May 20th. These matches weren't just about collecting points; they were about building confidence, honing Tata Martino's tactical vision, and allowing stars like Miguel Almirón to shine with his incredible playmaking and goal-scoring ability. The team showed resilience too, navigating injuries to key players, including Josef Martinez, early in the season, proving their depth and collective spirit. Each fixture on that Atlanta United 2017 schedule was crucial, helping to mold the team’s identity and showcase their unique style of play to the league. They were consistently among the league leaders in offensive categories, thrilling fans with their relentless attack and ability to score from anywhere on the pitch.
A massive shift occurred in September with the move to the new, state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This wasn't just a new venue; it was an upgrade to a whole new level of fan experience and a massive boost for the team. The first game there, a 3-0 shutout victory against FC Dallas on September 10th, was another statement. The stadium quickly became famous for its incredible attendance, regularly breaking MLS records. The latter part of the Atlanta United 2017 schedule saw a strong push for the playoffs, including a string of impressive home wins and dramatic away draws. The 7-0 demolition of the New England Revolution on September 13th, another record-breaking performance, was pure spectacle. Ending the regular season with a dominant 2-2 draw against Toronto FC, the eventual MLS Cup champions, demonstrated their ability to compete with the league’s elite. This entire schedule was a wild ride, a testament to a team that defied expectations and left an indelible mark on MLS history, forever cementing their place as a major player in North American soccer.
March and April: Kicking Off the Dream
The early days of the Atlanta United 2017 schedule in March and April were absolutely electric, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable inaugural season. Guys, remember that palpable anticipation leading up to the very first match? It all kicked off on March 5th against the New York Red Bulls away from home. While a 2-1 loss wasn't the dream debut result, Yamil Asad etched his name into the history books by scoring Atlanta United's first-ever MLS goal. It was a moment that signaled the attacking philosophy Tata Martino was instilling – even in defeat, they were going to play exciting, offensive soccer. This initial road trip was crucial for the team to gel, facing tough opponents and getting a taste of MLS competition on the road, where they learned valuable lessons about the intensity and physicality of the league. It was a baptism by fire, but one that ultimately strengthened their resolve.
But the real explosion of excitement came on March 12th with the first home game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The opponent? Fellow expansion side Minnesota United FC. This wasn’t just a game; it was a phenomenon, a vibrant party that cemented Atlanta’s place as a soccer city. An incredible 55,297 fans packed the stadium, setting a new record for an MLS expansion team's home opener. And boy, did the team deliver! A monumental 6-1 thrashing of Minnesota, featuring Josef Martinez’s historic first hat-trick for the club, sent a clear message to the league: Atlanta United was here to dominate. The goals kept coming: Miguel Almirón, Jacob Peterson, and Yamil Asad all found the net, turning the stadium into a cauldron of pure joy. The atmosphere created by the sheer volume and passion of the fans was a game-changer, providing an immediate home-field advantage that few teams could rival, even from established clubs.
Throughout March and April on the Atlanta United 2017 schedule, the team continued to build momentum and face early challenges. They secured a gritty 0-0 draw away at Seattle on March 31st, showing defensive solidity against a strong Western Conference opponent. April brought more home success, including a dominant 3-1 victory over the Sounders on April 15th, showcasing their ability to bounce back and maintain a strong home record. Another key result was the thrilling 2-2 draw against Montreal Impact on April 22nd, a game that highlighted their never-say-die attitude and ability to fight for points. Even with key players like Josef Martinez sidelined with injuries during this period, the team displayed remarkable depth and resilience, with other players stepping up to fill the void. The early stages of the 2017 schedule proved that Atlanta United wasn't just a collection of talented individuals; they were a cohesive unit, already showing the signs of a formidable force, captivating a city starved for soccer success and setting the stage for an extraordinary season. These initial matches were absolutely vital in forging the identity of this young club and establishing a deep connection with its rapidly growing fanbase, proving they belonged in MLS.
May to August: Building Momentum and Breaking Records
As the Atlanta United 2017 schedule moved into the warmer months from May to August, the team truly hit their stride, transforming from an exciting expansion side into a legitimate playoff contender. This period was all about building momentum, showcasing their attacking prowess, and beginning to break records both on and off the field. May started strong, with a commanding 4-1 victory over the Houston Dynamo on May 20th, where the team's free-flowing offense was on full display. The partnership between Almirón, Villalba, and a returning-from-injury Josef Martinez was becoming one of the most feared attacking trios in the league, consistently tearing apart opposition defenses with their speed, skill, and clinical finishing. This triumvirate was a joy to watch, turning every match into an exciting spectacle for fans.
June brought more thrilling matches. We saw a tough 3-1 road loss to Chicago Fire, but they quickly bounced back with a 2-0 home victory against the Columbus Crew SC on June 17th. These mid-season games on the Atlanta United 2017 schedule were crucial for testing the team's depth and mental fortitude. They were learning how to grind out results, manage the busy MLS schedule, and maintain consistency. The team's ability to create chances and score goals was remarkable. Even when faced with defensive challenges, their sheer offensive firepower often overwhelmed opponents, providing thrilling comebacks and dominant performances. They continued to refine their high-press system, making them incredibly difficult to play against and often forcing errors from the opposition in dangerous areas. Their tactical discipline, combined with individual brilliance, made them a formidable force.
August was a pivotal month, marking the final stretch at Bobby Dodd Stadium before the highly anticipated move to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The atmosphere for those last games was incredible, a send-off to the venue that hosted their historic beginnings. A 2-0 victory over D.C. United on August 21st was a fitting farewell to Bobby Dodd. But the biggest milestone of this period, and indeed the entire Atlanta United 2017 schedule, was the opening of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This wasn't just a new stadium; it was a cathedral of soccer, a symbol of the club's ambition and the city's burgeoning passion for the sport. The first MLS match there, a stunning 3-0 victory against FC Dallas on September 10th (though technically early September, it's the culmination of this build-up), set the tone for what would become an incredible home advantage. The attendance figures soared, shattering MLS records game after game. The energy transferred from Bobby Dodd Stadium seemed to multiply in the new venue, turning every home game into an absolute spectacle and solidifying Atlanta's reputation as a top soccer market. This period was truly instrumental in cementing Atlanta United's identity as an attacking force and a major player in MLS, setting the stage for their playoff push with unmatched confidence and fan support.
September and October: The Playoff Push and Historic Closures
The months of September and October on the Atlanta United 2017 schedule were nothing short of spectacular, representing the dramatic playoff push that culminated in their first MLS Cup Playoffs appearance. This was crunch time, guys, where every point mattered, and the team truly rose to the occasion, fueled by the energy of their new home, Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The momentum from the stadium opening carried directly into a sensational run of form. After kicking off September with that impressive 3-0 win over FC Dallas, Atlanta United simply exploded, showcasing a level of dominance that had not been seen from an expansion side in MLS history. The team was playing with an incredible swagger, confident in their abilities and energized by the fervent home crowd.
Just three days later, on September 13th, they delivered one of the most dominant performances in MLS history, a jaw-dropping 7-0 demolition of the New England Revolution. Josef Martinez was a man possessed, bagging another hat-trick, while Almirón and Villalba continued to terrorize defenses. This match wasn't just a win; it was a statement that Atlanta United was a legitimate threat, a team nobody wanted to face. The Atlanta United 2017 schedule in September was relentless, but the team thrived under pressure. They followed up the Revolution thrashing with a crucial 4-0 victory against Orlando City SC, securing back-to-back blowouts that ignited the league. These results were pivotal in solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. The team showcased incredible offensive fluidity and defensive organization, becoming a well-oiled machine under Tata Martino's guidance, perfectly executing his high-octane tactical vision.
As October rolled around, the tension mounted. Every match felt like a cup final. A hard-fought 1-1 draw against the Philadelphia Union on October 7th was followed by a massive 2-0 road win against Minnesota United FC, avenging their earlier season loss and officially securing their spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs. This achievement, in their inaugural season, was monumental and a testament to the entire squad's dedication and the coaching staff’s vision. The regular season concluded with a thrilling 2-2 draw against eventual MLS Cup champions Toronto FC on October 22nd, a game that proved Atlanta United could go toe-to-toe with the league’s best. While their playoff journey ended quickly with a narrow 0-0 draw (losing 3-0 on penalties) to Columbus Crew SC in the Knockout Round, the fact that they made the playoffs at all in their first year, on the strength of the impressive Atlanta United 2017 schedule run, was an incredible accomplishment. It laid a formidable foundation and set incredibly high expectations for the future, proving that Atlanta was not just a soccer city, but a winning soccer city right from the start, a testament to their immediate impact on the MLS landscape.
The Unforgettable Impact: How the 2017 Schedule Shaped a Legacy
Looking back at the Atlanta United 2017 schedule, it’s abundantly clear that this wasn’t just a year of soccer games; it was the genesis of a phenomenon, shaping an unforgettable impact and laying the groundwork for a lasting legacy of the 2017 Atlanta United season. Guys, seriously, what Atlanta United accomplished in that first year went far beyond mere results on the field. They didn't just play soccer; they transformed the sporting landscape of a city, built a passionate fan culture from scratch, and redefined what it meant to be an expansion team in MLS. The sheer number of records broken, from attendance figures at both Bobby Dodd and Mercedes-Benz Stadium to goal-scoring streaks, spoke volumes about the excitement and quality this team brought to the league, proving that soccer could thrive in a major American sports market.
The way the team approached every game on that Atlanta United 2017 schedule – with an attacking mindset, relentless energy, and a never-say-die attitude – resonated deeply with the local community. They played with a swagger and a joy that was infectious. This wasn't just a club; it was a movement. The support from the Five Stripes faithful, with their chants, tifos, and unwavering presence, became legendary. This dynamic relationship between the team and its fans was forged in the crucible of that inaugural season, and it's a bond that continues to this day. The Atlanta United 2017 schedule essentially served as a year-long audition for the city, and Atlanta passed with flying colors, proving that it was indeed a "soccer city" long before the critics believed, defying all expectations and stereotypes about soccer in the South.
Beyond the immediate success of making the playoffs, the legacy of the 2017 Atlanta United season is found in how it set the stage for future success. The core group of players – Almirón, Martinez, Villalba, Larentowicz, Parkhurst – developed an unparalleled chemistry and understanding under Tata Martino's system during this very schedule. This foundation, built through the trials and triumphs of their first 34 regular-season games and one playoff match, was the launchpad for their historic 2018 MLS Cup victory. The lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the identity forged during the Atlanta United 2017 schedule were invaluable. It taught them how to win, how to overcome adversity, and how to harness the incredible energy of their fanbase. It’s a testament to that incredible first year that whenever we talk about Atlanta United's history, the 2017 season isn't just a footnote; it's the epic opening chapter, a masterclass in how to build a winning culture and capture the heart of a city. The impact of that season truly transcends the sport itself, creating a blueprint for other expansion teams and leaving an indelible mark on MLS.
