Gerardo Martino said Atlanta United can still carry something forward from a season that will end without a playoff berth, pointing to the team's effort in a 3-1 win over Toronto FC as proof there is a foundation to work with.
Atlanta United had already been eliminated from postseason contention before its latest match, but it responded with a composed performance. Miguel Almiron scored, set up Cooper Sanchez, and Aleksey Miranchuk scored after the restart as Atlanta United finished off Toronto FC 3-1.
For Martino, the result was about more than just three points. He said the team wants to end the season well and believes people can see, when they watch Atlanta United, that the group can compete. He added that the team had an identity in a match that carried no consequences, and that seeing the way it competed shows there is something to build on for 2026.
The win also gave Atlanta United a reminder of what has been missing during a difficult year. The club has nine MLS wins this season, and this is the first time since 2022 that it has failed to reach the postseason. That backdrop makes the final stretch more about direction than standings.
There is one more meaningful game left on the schedule. On Decision Day, Atlanta United is set to face New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated Stadium, with both teams already out of the playoff race. New York Red Bulls were eliminated after Sunday’s loss to Nashville SC, a game they led by two goals before the comeback.
That matchup will not change the postseason picture, but it will give both clubs one last chance to show where they are headed. Martino’s message is that Atlanta United should be judged not only on the final table, but on whether the team keeps showing the attitude and competitive edge he believes it can carry into next season.
