In a shocking first-round exit from the MLS Cup playoffs, Lionel Messi’s goal wasn’t enough to prevent Inter Miami’s elimination by Atlanta United, who emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in the best-of-three decider held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This intense matchup followed both teams’ prior wins in the series, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
Inter Miami concluded the regular season with an impressive 74 points from 34 games, capturing the Supporters’ Shield in the Eastern Conference. In the decisive game, Miami initially took the lead when Matias Rojas capitalized on a rebound after Atlanta’s former Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan blocked Messi’s shot. However, Atlanta quickly turned the tables with two back-to-back goals from Jamal Thiare. Although Messi equalized with a well-placed header, Atlanta’s Bartosz Slisz ultimately secured the win after Miami’s defense was momentarily weakened with Tomas Aviles injured on the field.
Recently, Inter Miami achieved global recognition by being named as one of the 32 teams in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup for next year, co-owned by soccer legend David Beckham. FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted their rapid rise, stating, “They are now officially one of the 32 best clubs in the world, already after a few years since their existence. Now, they can begin writing their story on the global stage.”
Adding to their lineup, Inter Miami signed Uruguayan striker Luiz Suarez in December, reuniting him with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.
Meanwhile, Atlanta United barely secured their playoff position by finishing ninth in the Eastern Conference and advanced by defeating Montreal in a tense wildcard game. Now, they will face Orlando City in the semi-finals, while New York City FC will compete against the New York Red Bulls. The winners of these single-elimination games will advance to the Eastern Conference final, with the ultimate conference champions meeting the Western Conference winner in the MLS Cup final on December 7.
Reflecting on the season, Inter Miami’s manager, Gerardo Martino, expressed mixed feelings. “This season has had its highs and lows,” he said. “We fell short of the expectations we set for the playoffs. It’s natural for the players to feel disappointed when the team falls short of such high aspirations.”
