Atlanta United came from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw against Charlotte FC on Wednesday night. Rookie defender Elías Báez and Miguel Almirón each scored in the second half to salvage a point for the home side.
Charlotte took control early. Kerwin Vargas opened the scoring in the 16th minute. His shot was initially blocked by Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos, but the ball came back to Vargas, who slotted it home for his third goal of the season. Charlotte doubled the lead just before halftime. Liel Abada scored his first goal of the campaign with a header in the 45th minute, assisted by Pep Biel and Ashley Westwood.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, Atlanta came out stronger in the second half. Báez pulled one back with a goal that ignited the comeback. Then, in the 73rd minute, Almirón equalized with a well-taken strike, completing the rally. Both teams pushed for a winner but settled for a draw.
The result leaves Charlotte with a 6-6-4 record, while Atlanta continues to fight for consistency in the MLS standings. The match showcased Atlanta's resilience after a difficult first half.