Atlanta United Struggles with Back-to-Back Losses in April 2026 MLS Play

Defensive vulnerabilities and offensive inefficiency plague the club as it falls to Columbus Crew and Chicago Fire FC

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and clashing forces of a soccer match, with players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color.A cubist interpretation of the intense on-field action as Atlanta United and Columbus Crew battle for crucial MLS points.Chicago Today

Atlanta United suffered a 1-3 home loss to Columbus Crew on April 4, 2026, followed by a 0-1 defeat against Chicago Fire FC on April 11, 2026, marking a difficult stretch for the club as it prepares for upcoming fixtures. The losses highlighted ongoing defensive issues and an inability to convert chances, leaving Atlanta United in the lower half of the Eastern Conference standings.

Why it matters

Atlanta United's recent struggles raise concerns about the team's depth, tactical consistency, and ability to compete for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The back-to-back losses have placed increased scrutiny on the club's offensive production and defensive organization, with head coach Ronny Deila acknowledging the need for improvements in these areas.

The details

In the loss to Columbus Crew, Atlanta United conceded two goals in the first half and another shortly after halftime, despite controlling 58% of possession and registering 14 shots. Thiago Almada's goal in the 68th minute provided a brief spark, but it was not enough to shift the momentum. Against Chicago Fire FC, Atlanta managed 52% possession and took 11 shots, but struggled with accuracy, managing only three on target. Chicago's lone goal came in the 72nd minute, scored by Miguel Navarro, capitalizing on a defensive lapse.

  • On April 4, 2026, Atlanta United suffered a 1-3 home loss to Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.
  • On April 11, 2026, Atlanta United fell 0-1 on the road to Chicago Fire FC at Soldier Field.

The players

Thiago Almada

An attacking midfielder for Atlanta United who scored the team's lone goal in the loss to Columbus Crew.

Ronny Deila

The head coach of Atlanta United, who acknowledged the team's struggles in converting chances and cited a need for greater composure in defensive transitions.

Brad Guzan

The goalkeeper for Atlanta United, who was unable to prevent the lone goal scored by Chicago Fire FC.

Cucho Hernández

A forward for Columbus Crew who scored one of the three goals against Atlanta United.

Miguel Navarro

A defender for Chicago Fire FC who scored the lone goal against Atlanta United.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must address our offensive inefficiencies and defensive lapses if we want to turn things around.”

— Ronny Deila, Head Coach, Atlanta United

What’s next

Atlanta United is scheduled to return to MLS action on April 19, 2026, with a home match against New York Red Bulls. The fixture presents an opportunity to reverse the recent downturn, especially given the team's stronger historical performance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The takeaway

Atlanta United's recent struggles highlight the importance of maintaining defensive organization and clinical finishing in MLS play. The club's reliance on Thiago Almada's creativity has been increasingly limited by opponents, underscoring the need for greater squad depth and tactical flexibility. As the team prepares for the upcoming match against New York Red Bulls, addressing these issues will be crucial for restoring confidence and improving their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.