Traoré scores late to end Atlanta's playoff run and revive NYCFC bid

Bénie Traoré struck in the fifth minute of stoppage time to give New York City FC a 2-1 victory over Atlanta United on Wednesday night. The goal ended a six-match winless streak for the visitors and knocked Atlanta out of the postseason race.

New York City FC (9-12-11) had not won at Citi Field until this match. The result also snapped a winless run that began in early September. The club now sits one point behind the New York Red Bulls for the ninth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference, with two games remaining on the schedule.

Nicolás Fernández put the hosts ahead in the 70th minute. He converted a free kick from 28 yards out to record his 16th goal of the season. It marked his first goal in seven matches. Atlanta United responded late in the regulation time. Breel Embolo headed the ball home in the 88th minute to level the score. That was his fourth goal in his first 10 matches in Major League Soccer.

Traoré, a 23-year-old forward in his first season, provided the decisive blow in the final moments of the game. It was his second goal in 17 appearances this year. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made five saves for New York. Lucas Hoyos stopped four shots for Atlanta. The teams drew 2-2 when they met in Atlanta in late September.

New York City FC improves to a 5-6-5 record at home. Atlanta United falls to 4-7-4 on the road. Atlanta will host Toronto FC on Sunday. New York will host CF Montreal on Saturday.