Atlanta United Pull Off Stunning Upset Against Inter Miami to Secure MLS Semifinal Spot
(Reuters) – Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated debut in the MLS postseason took a shocking turn on Saturday as Atlanta United emerged victorious in a thrilling 3-2 upset against the overwhelming favorites, Inter Miami, during the Round One clash.
Atlanta’s forward Jamal Thiare ignited the scoring in the 19th minute, registering his first of the night just two minutes later to send the Atlanta supporters into a frenzy. It was Bartosz Slisz, however, who would ultimately seal the deal with a stunning header in the 76th minute, propelling the Five Stripes into the semifinals where they will face off against Orlando City SC.
Despite finishing the regular season with a league-best 74 points, Miami struggled to maintain their momentum throughout the match. They briefly took the lead thanks to Matias Rojas’ close-range strike in the 17th minute, followed by Messi’s equalizer in the 65th minute.
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Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s MLS Playoff Dreams Dashed as Atlanta United Prevail
The tension was palpable as a sea of pink Miami fans held their breath while Thiare rattled the woodwork in the 15th minute. Atlanta came out of the gates firing and was quick to apply intense pressure on their rivals.
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan displayed heroic efforts, making a stunning diving save to deny Messi’s powerful attempt from the center of the box in the 17th minute, though he couldn’t recover fast enough to stop Rojas from converting the rebound, putting Miami ahead.
Thiare responded immediately, finding the top right corner with a brilliant finish, followed by another exquisite goal just moments later after a clever flick from midfielder Aleksey Miranchuk.
Diego Gomez nearly leveled the score for Miami in the 24th minute, showcasing his skill by eluding Atlanta defender Ronald Hernandez and getting a shot past Guzan, though the goal was ultimately disallowed.
Guzan continued to be tested in the second half, notably swatting away a fantastic header from defender Jordi Alba in the 52nd minute. However, Messi eventually broke through Guzan’s defenses, equalizing with a header from close range.
With their backs against the ropes, Atlanta’s determination shone through as Slisz soared to connect with a pinpoint cross from Pedro Amador, regaining the lead for the visitors.
Despite earning a free kick in stoppage time, Messi’s effort struck the wall of Atlanta defenders, and frantic attempts to level the score were in vain as Miami’s dreams of glory came to an abrupt end.
(Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York; Editing by William Mallard)
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