Rookie Abada scores twice to lead Charlotte to 3-2 win over Atlanta United

ATLANTA — Rookie Liel Abada scored two goals to lead Charlotte to a 3-2 victory over Atlanta United on Sunday.

Atlanta United (4-8-4) took a 1-0 lead in the 35th minute thanks to a goal from Thiago Almada, who found the net for the fourth time this season on a left-footed shot from the center of the surface.

Charlotte (7-6-4) equalized five minutes later on an own goal from Atlanta United defender Derrick Williams.

Charlotte took a 2-1 lead in the 56th minute when Abada, a 22-year-old forward, took advantage of an assist from Kerwin Vargas – his first – to score.

Abada gave Charlotte a two-goal lead in the 68th minute, thanks to passes from Brandt Bronico and defender Jere Uronen. Abada’s first career double gives him three goals this season. It was Uronen’s second assist and Bronico’s first.

Xande Silva found the net in the 79th minute to lead Atlanta United to score. Silva scored for the first time this season thanks to Ajani Fortune’s early assist.

Kristijan Kahlina saved two shots for Charlotte. Kahlina enjoyed a club record run of five consecutive clean sheets before surrendering three in a defeat to the New York Red Bulls last time out.

Rookie Josh Cohen made two saves in his first start and second appearance for Atlanta United.

Atlanta United ended a nine-match winless streak with a 3-1 win over Eastern Conference leaders Inter Miami on Wednesday.

Charlotte takes a 3-2-0 series lead. The two clubs split two matches last season, both winning at home.

Atlanta United returns to action on June 15 when the Houston Dynamo comes to town. Charlotte is also off until the 15th when they host DC United.

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