Philadelphia Union 0, Atlanta United 2 | 2018 MLS Match Recap

Josef Martinez and Hector Villalba struck for second-half goals to lead Atlanta United to a 2-0 win over the Philadelphia Union Saturday night at Talen Energy Stadium.

Martinez created more separation in the Golden Boot race with his league-leading 18th goal of the season, beating Andre Blake from the penalty spot in the 58th minute to put Atlanta United (12-4-4) in front, 1-0.

Leandro Gonzalez Pirez played Miguel Almiron behind with a sublime ball from midfield and when the Paraguayan midfielder took at touch to round Blake, the Union’s goalkeeper had no choice but to pull Almiron down for the penalty.

Martinez also converted a pair of penalty kicks in a 3-1 win over nine-man Philadelphia (6-8-3) last month.

Martinez played provider for Villalba’s insurance goal in the 76th minute, playing Almiron into the box on a quick 1-2 and Almiron sent a ball across the goal to Villalba for the simple tap-in.

Goals

• 58’ — ATL — Josef Martinez (PK) | WATCH
• 76’ — ATL — Hector Villalba | WATCH

Three Things

THE BIG PICTURE: Atlanta United bounced back from a midweek defeat at FC Dallas in a comprehensive win that extended their lead atop the Supporters' Shield race, while the Union looked anemic in the attack in their third loss in the last four games.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH
: We think ATLUTD might have locked up Goal of the Week again on a wonderful selfless buildup on their second goal.

MAN OF THE MATCH
: The Five Stripes usual suspects were all sharp as usual, but Martinez was at the heart of their biggest moments with a clinical PK and an assist on Villalba’s insurance goal.

Up Next

• Philadelphia: Wednesday, July 11 at Chicago Fire (8:30 pm ET | TV & Streaming info)
• Atlanta: Sunday, July 15 vs. Seattle Sounders FC (2 pm ET | FOX, TSN - Full TV & Streaming info)