ATLANTA — In a dramatic showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, filled to the brim with 68,455 electric fans, Atlanta United pulled off a remarkable upset against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, clinching a 2-1 victory in the first round of the playoffs. This crowd marked the fifth-largest postseason attendance in MLS history, showcasing the fervor and passion for soccer in the South.
As the match reached additional time, it was Xande Silva, emerging from the bench, who delivered the game-winner, leaving Miami reeling and forcing a must-win Game 3 in this best-of-three series. The atmosphere became electric as Silva’s goal was met with a deafening cheer, followed by jubilant chants of “A-T-L! A-T-L!” and waving of the giveaway “404” towels that colored the stands.
“It was everything I dreamed it would be, an unbelievable moment,” exclaimed Atlanta’s interim coach, Rob Valentino. “The noise after we scored was just incredible, and it took everything I had to stay composed walking back to the half-time break.”
The pivotal Game 3 is slated for Saturday at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Atlanta’s defender Derrick Williams was pivotal in leveling the match, netting a brilliant header from a set-piece in the 58th minute, which sent the Atlanta crowd into a frenzy after a lackluster first half where Miami initially led.
With downtown Atlanta buzzing due to a Billie Eilish concert at the nearby State Farm Arena, the night was a spectacle of stars, drawing both music and soccer aficionados. Collectively, Eilish and Messi commanded a staggering 624 million Instagram followers, all present to revel in the excitement.
Although the majority of fans donned Atlanta’s colors, the presence of Messi’s iconic No. 10 jerseys was equally striking, with supporters showcasing Inter Miami’s vibrant pink and Argentine blue, as well as vintage Barcelona stripes.
Inter Miami drew first blood in the 40th minute, courtesy of center back David Martinez, who capitalized on a slip-up from Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who was relentless in Game 1 with eight saves. Redondo slipped the ball to Martinez, who deftly chipped it into an unguarded net, sparking boos from the Atlanta supporters.
Miami headed into halftime with a 1-0 advantage. With a perfect record of 13 wins and no losses when scoring first this season, the odds appeared stacked in Miami’s favor. Conversely, Atlanta faced a grim 1-11-7 record after conceding the first goal.
A notable contingent of Messi fans included Jessica and Eric Garfias, bringing along their children, Elias (7) and Genesis (9), plus their nephew Aiden (7). The Garfias family, thrilled by Messi’s presence, held homemade banners proclaiming “Let’s Go Messi!”
“It’s an unforgettable excitement, especially for Elias who has just started playing soccer and idolizes Messi. Getting tickets to see him live was a must for us!” said Jessica Garfias.
In a lineup that featured stars like Messi, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba, the absence of midfielder Sergio Busquets due to illness was noted. The comprehensive Miami starting XI also included goalkeeper Drake Callender and a robust defensive line, though they faced setbacks with injuries that hampered their performance.
Entering the playoffs as the top seed after a record-setting 74 points season, Inter Miami was expected to march through the playoffs effortlessly. Meanwhile, Atlanta United, finding their way as a wild card, displayed tenacity and determination to keep their aspirations alive.
“I can’t contain my excitement for Game 3. The buzz around the stadium will be electric,” Valentino added, acknowledging the incredible support. “These fans are eager to rally behind you, whether coming for Messi or cheering for our squad, they share in this journey with us. We’re far from finished!”
Indeed, for Atlanta United, the journey continues.
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