Lionel Messi scored, but
Atlanta United knocked Inter Miami out of the MLS playoffs with a 3-2 victory
Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Flop Out of MLS Playoffs, Stunned by Atlanta.
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s first playoff run in Major League Soccer (MLS) was a tale brimming with hope and lofty expectations. Yet, despite the hype and promise, Messi, often dubbed the “Greatest of All Time,” and his side saw their journey come to a stunning and abrupt end.
The top-seeded Inter Miami were upset 3-2 by Atlanta United, who barely scraped into the playoffs with a losing record and negative goal difference. Even though Lionel Messi scored in this decisive showdown, it wasn’t enough to keep Inter Miami’s MLS playoffs dream alive.
An Unpredictable Playoff Start
The buzz around Lionel Messi’s debut in the MLS playoffs was undeniable. With his arrival at Inter Miami, the team transformed from a struggling outfit into a formidable force, storming their way to a playoff berth. The MLS playoffs were expected to be Messi’s stage, a platform where his magic could shine once again. But against Atlanta United, the narrative quickly shifted. Atlanta, a team that had won just 10 out of 34 regular-season matches, managed to knock out the heavy favourites in a display that shocked American soccer. Lionel Messi, despite his undeniable skill and effort, could not change Inter Miami's fate.
Early Dominance and Atlanta’s Response
Inter Miami had a dominant start in Game 1 of this best-of-three series, securing a convincing victory. Hopes were high, and expectations even higher, as the Herons only needed to win one of the next two matches to advance. But Atlanta United had other ideas. In Game 2, Inter Miami squandered a lead, losing 2-1 in a game where Messi remained uncharacteristically silent. This defeat set up a do-or-die Game 3, or as Inter Miami midfielder Federico Redondo put it in Spanish, “un partido de matar o morir” — a match of kill-or-be-killed. Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s talisman, was primed for a showdown.
Lionel Messi’s Moment and the Dramatic Turn
Game 3, held in Fort Lauderdale, began with tension and excitement. Atlanta United struck first, with Matías Rojas capitalising on Miami’s defensive errors. The underdogs then took a shock lead, as Jamal Thiaré punished Inter Miami’s backline twice within three minutes, sending their fans into a frenzy. However, Lionel Messi had his moment. He scored to equalise at 2-2, sending waves of hope through the packed stadium. The goal was a classic Messi strike, filled with precision and class, and it reignited belief among Inter Miami supporters.
But just when it seemed like the momentum had shifted in Miami’s favour, Atlanta struck back. Bartosz Slisz headed home a 76th-minute goal to reclaim the lead, silencing the Miami faithful. This was the turning point that sealed the fate of Lionel Messi and Inter Miami. Despite Messi’s goal and valiant efforts, Atlanta held on for a 3-2 victory, knocking the top-seeded favourites out of the MLS playoffs.
Defensive Lapses Prove Costly
One of the most significant factors in Inter Miami’s defeat was their defensive vulnerability. Atlanta United, a side not known for their attacking prowess throughout the regular season, exploited Miami’s lax defending on multiple occasions. Jamal Thiaré’s quick double strike was a prime example of Miami’s lapses. The usually composed backline, which had improved under coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino, seemed unable to cope with Atlanta’s pace and pressure. Even with Lionel Messi working his magic up front, the defensive shortcomings left Inter Miami vulnerable, a weakness Atlanta capitalised on fully.
The Upset That Shook American Soccer
The result sent shockwaves through American soccer circles. Lionel Messi’s arrival in the MLS had brought unprecedented attention to the league, with Inter Miami becoming a focal point. Fans and analysts expected Messi to lead the Herons deep into the playoffs, potentially even lifting the MLS Cup. However, this early exit highlighted the unpredictability of the league and the challenges Messi and Miami faced. Atlanta United’s triumph as the No. 9 seed was a testament to the beauty and drama of playoff football.
The aftermath was one of disbelief and disappointment for Inter Miami fans. Lionel Messi had given them hope and dreams of silverware. Yet, football is a team sport, and even the GOAT couldn’t carry the side past their defensive flaws. For Atlanta, the victory was a monumental achievement, a moment that will be remembered in the club’s history.
Messi’s Impact and Miami’s Future
While the loss was undoubtedly a blow, Lionel Messi’s influence on Inter Miami and MLS cannot be understated. Since joining the league, Messi has elevated the quality of play and brought global attention to American soccer. His performances, from free-kick masterpieces to game-winning assists, have captivated audiences and inspired a new generation of fans. Despite the playoff disappointment, Messi’s legacy in MLS is still in its early days, with much more to come.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami have lessons to learn. Defensive solidity will be a key area of focus as they aim to bounce back in the next season. The team will also look to strengthen their squad around Lionel Messi, ensuring they are not overly reliant on their star man. As for Messi, he remains motivated and committed to bringing success to Miami, a challenge he has embraced with his usual passion and professionalism.
A Shocking End to a Promising Journey
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s exit from the MLS playoffs was a shocker, a reminder of the sport’s unpredictability. The GOAT had moments of brilliance, but Atlanta United’s resilience and Miami’s defensive frailties told the story of the match. While this season didn’t end as Messi and his fans had hoped, the journey was thrilling, and the future holds promise. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Lionel Messi’s MLS adventure is far from over, and the football world will be watching closely.
In the world of football, even legends face setbacks. For Lionel Messi, this was just one chapter in his MLS story, with many more yet to be written.
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