Kevin Denkey and Nick Hagglund scored crucial late goals to secure a 2-0 victory for FC Cincinnati against Atlanta United FC in their MLS regular season opener on Saturday. The win marked an important start to the season for Cincinnati.
Key Moments and Player Contributions
Denkey opened the scoring in the 80th minute after receiving a precise assist from Ender Echenique. Denkey deceived goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos before calmly placing the ball between defenders with his left foot. Nick Hagglund added a second goal in the 90th minute, heading in a corner taken by Bryan Ramirez.
Hagglund’s return to form was notable, given he had missed more than two months last year due to two broken ribs and a collapsed lung sustained in a match against Atlanta on May 25. Cincinnati also faced an early setback when 2025 MVP finalist Evander left the field after suffering a hamstring injury just 13 minutes into the game. Gerardo Valenzuela replaced him promptly.
Earlier in the match, Denkey narrowly missed a scoring opportunity in the 56th minute when a turnover by Atlanta’s center back Juan Berrocal allowed him a one-on-one chance with Hoyos, but his shot struck the outside of the right post.
New Leadership and Team Outlook
This match was the first for Atlanta United under new manager Gerardo “Tato” Martino, who previously coached the Argentina national team, Barcelona, and most recently, Inter Miami from 2023 to 2024. Martino notably coached Lionel Messi during his tenures at all three teams.
The win reflects FC Cincinnati’s positive start to a new MLS season, setting a hopeful tone as they progress. With key players like Denkey and Hagglund contributing decisively, Cincinnati aims to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
