Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated debut in the MLS playoffs came to a disappointing end as Inter Miami fell to Atlanta United in a tight 3-2 clash. The unexpected defeat saw Inter Miami, the favorites to secure the championship after a record-breaking regular season, bow out of the competition. Atlanta’s Bartosz Slisz was the unlikely hero, scoring the decisive goal that left Inter Miami’s playoff ambitions in tatters.
Inter Miami entered the match with high expectations, bolstered by Lionel Messi’s phenomenal season. However, Atlanta United demonstrated resilience and tactical skill, catching Inter Miami off guard. The result shattered Inter Miami fans’ dreams, who had hoped Lionel Messi’s influence would guide their team to victory in his first MLS season. Inter Miami’s early promise ultimately succumbed to Atlanta’s aggressive gameplay and calculated precision in seizing key moments.
Inter Miami’s Early Dominance Derailed by Atlanta’s Swift Response
Inter Miami started the game strongly, pressing forward with fierce energy. Lionel Messi’s long-range attempts and forward Thiare’s shot hitting the post in the 15th minute signaled Inter Miami’s intent to dominate. Yet, Atlanta quickly took control, launching a wave of counterattacks that tested Inter Miami’s defense and showed cracks in their once-formidable lineup. Matias Rojas’ close-range goal in the 17th minute stunned Miami, who had not expected such a swift response after dominating possession early on.
Thiare brought Atlanta level just minutes later, with an impressive finish that showcased Atlanta’s attacking prowess. Aleksey Miranchuk contributed further with a masterful flick that set up Thiare’s second goal. Miami, reeling from Atlanta’s rapid response, struggled to regain their footing, and their once-promising start soon unraveled as Atlanta continued to pressure relentlessly.
Lionel Messi’s Efforts and Miami’s Late Push Fall Short
Despite their setbacks, Inter Miami rallied with efforts from Lionel Messi and Diego Gomez, who came close to leveling the score in the 24th minute. However, Gomez’s goal was ruled offside, dealing another blow to Miami’s hopes. In the second half, Jordi Alba’s powerful header in the 52nd minute was expertly deflected by Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan. However, Lionel Messi eventually broke through, equalizing in the 65th minute with a close-range header that reinvigorated Miami’s chances.
Atlanta, however, responded with renewed energy, refusing to retreat defensively. Bartosz Slisz’s match-winning header, courtesy of a pinpoint cross from Pedro Amador, sealed the deal for Atlanta. Inter Miami tried desperately to equalize in stoppage time, but their efforts were thwarted, and Lionel Messi’s final free kick was deflected by Atlanta’s wall of defenders, ending Inter Miami’s playoff dreams.
Guzan’s Heroics and Atlanta’s Grit Prove Decisive
Atlanta United’s success owed much to the skill and resilience of goalkeeper Brad Guzan, whose consistent saves kept Miami at bay. Guzan’s critical block on Lionel Messi’s powerful shot in the 17th minute exemplified his remarkable performance under pressure. “There’s some fairy dust in our locker room,” Guzan remarked after the match, reflecting on the team’s ability to overcome the odds and defeat Miami, who had been favorites all season.
The victory was a testament to Atlanta United’s grit and determination, marking one of the biggest upsets in the MLS playoffs. With this defeat, Messi and Inter Inter Miami’s impressive season comes to an abrupt close, while Atlanta advances with renewed confidence, ready to carry their momentum forward in the postseason. The game stands as a memorable chapter in MLS playoff history, marking the dramatic end of Inter Miami’s run and reinforcing Atlanta’s reputation as a formidable challenger in the league.
