Ajani Fortune's 1st MLS goal powers Atlanta United past Charlotte FC

Ajani Fortune scored a second-half goal for his first career MLS tally to give Atlanta United a much-needed victory over host Charlotte FC 1-0 on Saturday night.

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan made six saves for Atlanta (8-12-7, 31 points) and has five clean sheets this year.

The United are in a 2-4-1 stretch and had not made much headway recently in pursuit of a postseason spot. They are battling for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Fortune, a 21-year-old midfielder, is in his second MLS season. Xande Silva assisted on the Atlanta goal in the 55th minute.

Charlotte (10-9-8, 38 points) is 0-1-1 in two matches since the break.

Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina stopped five shots.

Atlanta outshot Charlotte 19-12 despite losing the time of possession battle 51.9 percent to 48.1.

The United lost 3-2 at home earlier this season to Charlotte.

--Field Level Media