Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United score, live tracker: Lionel Messi and Co. face elimination in MLS playoffs

Inter Miami’s dream season reaches a pivotal moment as they host Atlanta Untied in Game 3 of their MLS Cup Playoff opener. After splitting the first two games, Saturday’s showdown at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a high-stakes decider, with Miami aiming to avoid an early playoff exit and continue their record-breaking run.

For the Herons, this season has been transformational. Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba have made Miami the team to beat, earning the Eastern Conference’s top seed with a record 74 points. But ninth-seeded Atlanta has already shown resilience, winning Game 2 with a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Xande Silva.

Miami’s path to victory will hinge on controlling the tempo and minimizing defensive errors, as Atlanta’s pace has caused some trouble. Messi, despite missing a chunk of the season, has already posted impressive numbers, and Saturday offers a perfect stage for his playoff breakthrough. Atlanta, meanwhile, will look to frustrate Miami’s midfield rhythm, with leading scorer Saba Lobzhanidze aiming to exploit any lapses.

With all eyes on Fort Lauderdale, Miami’s star-studded squad has the pressure — and the potential — to move one step closer to a championship. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. ET on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

Follow our live blog below for up-to-the-minute updates, expert analysis and insight as Messi and Co. fight to keep their title hopes alive.

How to watch Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United

• Time: 8 pm ET

• Location: Chase Stadium | Fort Lauderdale, Florida

• Streaming: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV