This year has brought milestone after milestone for Atlanta United center back Miles Robinson.
On a drama-filled Decision Day, the 24-year-old reached another one, opening his MLS account in Cincinnati with a goal that propelled the 5-Stripes to a 2-1 comeback victory and an Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoff berth.
The goal spurred reactions from teammates that continued to pour in after the match. The majority of them congratulatory – some simply hilarious.
“I told him that was the first of 100,” Guzan joked during the post-match press conference. “Miles is on his way to 100, he’s going to be the next one after Jo.”
After the match, when Josef Martínez was asked how worried he was about Miles catching him on the goalscoring leaderboards, he laughed before sharing his thoughts.
“I’m very happy for Miles, he’s such a fundamental player for us,” Martínez said. “He’s had a very important year for him and I congratulate him. I’m happy for players like him who help on the field but also have the ability to score goals.”
Banter aside, Guzan’s confidence in his U.S. men’s national teammate is real. He’s witnessed Robinson find the back of the net for his country twice, including the unforgettable stoppage time header that lifted the U.S. to Gold Cup glory in August.
But in 88 MLS appearances, Robinson had yet to score a goal for Atlanta United. He nearly found his first in the 66th minute, again from an Ezequiel Barco set piece, but his headed effort was denied by the post.
The breakthrough moment, which brought tied the game at 1-1 in the 70th minute, was a relief given its implications for the club’s playoff picture. From his social media post after the game, it was evident that it also came as a relief on a personal level.
“FINALLY got my first MLS goal,” Robinson wrote on Twitter with the hashtags “bout time” and “better late than never.”
Robinson’s last goal for Atlanta United came during the 2019 U.S. Open Cup in a 3-2 win over Columbus Crew.
Atlanta United head coach Gonzalo Pineda expressed his delight to see Miles back on the scoresheet.
“It’s a good step for Miles. Looking forward, going to the national team, I hope this motivates him and he has a very good participation with his national team,” Pineda said.
After being reminded that Miles will suit up to face Mexico on Friday, Pineda, who accumulated 45 caps for Mexico during his playing career, added to his statement.
“I wish the best to Miles. I wish the best to Mexico,” he said with a grin. “I hope he scores two goals but Mexico beat the U.S.”
