Atlanta United FC had a day to remember on Sunday, defeating FC Dallas in front of a hometown crowd of over 45,000 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
With the Sunday afternoon match, United commenced its arrival at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the new facility that will host both the MLS club and the NFL’s Falcons. On the pitch, the game was a success for Atlanta, which defeated FC Dallas 3-0.
As expected, however, the debut of the new stadium was a major part of the story. United was greeted by an announced attendance of 45,314, allowing it to continue the attendance success it had at its previous home, Bobby Dodd Stadium.
United was supposed to have debuted at Mercedes-Benz Stadium months ago, but construction delays resulted in the team playing home matches at Bobby Dodd Stadium through July. For the players, the wait for the new stadium appeared to be well worth it. More from the AP:
“Everything about this stadium is world class,” goalkeeper Brad Guzan said. “For us to be able to call this place home, we’re pretty lucky.”
United was initially supposed to begin the season at the $1.5 billion stadium it shares with the NFL Falcons, but construction delays pushed back the opening three times. Atlanta was forced to play its first nine home matches at Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium, and two other games were rescheduled.
Though their arrival to the facility may have come later than expected, United will have plenty of exposure to Mercedes-Benz Stadium over the next month. Between now and the end of September alone, Atlanta will play five home matches, including contests on Wednesday, September 13 and Saturday, September 16.
Image courtesy Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
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