ATLANTA — Atlanta showed the world what Atlantans already know: This city loves soccer.
The city helped set another MLS record on Wednesday night when 72,317 soccer fans watched the MLS All-Star game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
An international audience watched Italy’s powerhouse team, Juventus, battle the MLS All-Stars.
“Especially after World Cup and a lot of soccer this summer, it’s kind of fun to see everybody here,” said soccer fan Reece Federman.
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Atlanta United players Brad Guzan, Josef Martinez and Miguel Almiron started the game with teammates Michael Parkhusrt and Ezequiel Barco on the bench.
Juventus opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a goal by Andrea Favilli.
Channel 2's Justin Wilfon took this photo from the press box of the crowd after Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez equalized sending the match to 1-1.
Martinez was named the MVP of the game.
After 90 minutes of play, the match went into penalties with Juventus defeating the All-Stars 5-3 in penalty kicks.
The match was the final event in what’s been an exciting several days in our city.
There was a 2Chainz concert, several fan events and much more.
The event was also another test for Atlanta police, who worked to keep fans at the stadium safe. An even larger test, the Super Bowl looming in February.
“With this game tonight, with its international prominence, we’ve certainly modified our staffing to account for that,” said Maj. Darin Schierbaum, with the Atlanta Police Department.
By the time the match ended, Atlanta could celebrate.
In the city’s defining soccer moment, it shone.
“It’s become very popular and I’m excited for the future to see how it develops," said soccer fan Lesley Sifford.