Stoppage time goal secures NYCFC playoff spot, ends Atlanta season

New York City FC clinched a vital point in the Eastern Conference race on Wednesday night, defeating Atlanta United 2-1 at Citi Field. The result ends Atlanta's postseason push and places NYCFC within striking distance of the final playoff berth.

The victory marks NYCFC's first win in six matches and its first since September 12. The club improved to 9-12-11 on the season and now trails the New York Red Bulls by just one point for the ninth and final spot in the conference. Atlanta United falls to 8-18-6.

Nicolás Fernández opened the scoring in the 70th minute with a 28-yard free kick. The goal was his 16th of the season and his first in seven appearances. Breel Embolo equalized for Atlanta in the 88th minute via a header. This was his fourth goal in his first 10 MLS matches.

Bénie Traoré scored the winning goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time. The 23-year-old forward, in his first professional season, has now recorded two goals in 17 appearances. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made five saves for NYCFC, while Lucas Hoyos stopped four shots for Atlanta. The first half ended scoreless after Freese had three saves and Hoyos one.

The two teams previously met in Atlanta at the end of September, resulting in a 2-2 draw. NYCFC now holds a 5-6-5 record at home, while Atlanta's road record stands at 4-7-4. Atlanta hosts Toronto FC on Sunday. NYCFC hosts CF Montreal on Saturday.