De Boer wins first title with Atlanta as MLS champs claim Campeones Cup
Sacha Pisani
August 15, 2019 02:43 MYT
August 15, 2019 02:43 MYT
Frank de Boer celebrated his first piece of silverware as Atlanta United head coach after the MLS champions overcame America 3-2 in the Campeones Cup.
Former Inter and Crystal Palace boss De Boer replaced Gerardo Martino, who guided Atlanta to their first MLS title in 2018 before taking charge of Mexico.
De Boer claimed his first title with Atlanta on Wednesday thanks to a second-half comeback at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In the annual North American clash – pitting the MLS champions against the Liga MX winners after kicking off last year – Atlanta made a dream start courtesy of Emerson Hyndman midweek.
Another trophy raise in the ATL pic.twitter.com/eHIkuY9Mwy — Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 15, 2019
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Hyndman broke the deadlock after just five minutes, but Mexican giants America hit back via Renato Ibarra eight minutes later in Atlanta.
Ibarra's shot went in off the crossbar, though Atlanta had a golden chance to restore their lead, however Josef Martinez's 41st-minute penalty was kept out by Oscar Jimenez.
Martinez was made to pay for his miss as America's Roger Martinez put the visitors ahead approaching the hour mark.
Big moment. Big player. pic.twitter.com/RlZCdWh2SP — Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 15, 2019
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America's lead was short-lived, however, after Jeff Larentowicz's wonder strike levelled proceedings two minutes later and Martinez made amends for his penalty miss – the Atlanta star converting a 65th-minute spot-kick.