New York City FC defeated Atlanta United 2-0 in the first round of the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs, advancing in the postseason for only the second time in club history. This victory earned NYCFC the right to play the New England Revolution on the plastic grass of Gillette Stadium in the Conference Semifinals on November 30.
More than a win, it was a purification for a club that habitually underachieves in the playoffs.
Most significant, this NYCFC squad finally played to its potential: We saw the composed, cohesive, and technical team supporters were waiting for all season.