Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami was eliminated to everyone’s surprise in the first round of the MLS play-offs. The Florida franchise was beaten 3-2 at home by Atlanta United on Saturday.
The 37-year-old Argentinian’s club was nevertheless the favorite, with the best record in the North American championship at the end of the regular season with a points record. For its part, Atlanta only finished ninth in the Eastern Conference, obtaining the last play-off place.
Inter took the lead in the 17th minute thanks to Matias Rojas, but Atlanta striker Jamal Thiaré turned things around in three minutes by scoring two goals (19th and 21st). We had to wait until the 65th minute and a helmet hit from Messi to see the two teams tied again. Before Atlanta regained the advantage in the 76th, this time definitively, on a header from Bartosz Slisz.
In the absence of injured Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets, Messi and his attacking partner Luis Suarez did not look at their best. The final whistle sent a chill through the stadium, where many had hoped to see Inter advance to their first MLS Cup.
Lionel Messi and his team may have some regrets, having shot almost three times more than their opponents and making more than twice as many attempts on target, in addition to having largely dominated possession. For its part, Atlanta will challenge Orlando in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.
/ATS
Swiss
