Atlanta United was eliminated from the U.S. Open Cup last night after suffering a 1-0 defeat to the Chicago Fire in front of a record crowd. However, nothing about the match seemed to throw off head coach Tata Martino during the post-match press conference. In fact, there was an aura of assurance as he discussed it. When asked if he was surprised at the Fire’s decision to play a nearly full strength lineup, Martino had this to say.
“No, it doesn’t surprise me. We analyzed the game beforehand and thought one of the scenarios that they could use would be to go with their full team.