Messi strikes as Inter Miami down Atlanta United
Inter Miami secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Atlanta United on Sunday, with Lionel Messi finding the net and veteran Fafa Picault sealing the win late in the game. The victory propelled Miami to the top of Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Eastern Conference and served as redemption for last season’s shocking playoff elimination at the hands of Atlanta.
Messi Leads Miami’s Fightback
Playing in front of 42,843 fans at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Miami found themselves trailing early after Atlanta’s Ivory Coast international Emmanuel Latte Lath struck in the 11th minute. Brooks Lennon delivered a pinpoint cross from the right flank, setting up Latte Lath, whose looping header beat Miami’s defense.
Miami responded swiftly, with Messi capitalizing on a defensive lapse in the 20th minute. The Argentine legend dispossessed Polish midfielder Bartosz Silsz at the edge of the area, danced past Derrick Williams, and delicately chipped a finish over veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan to level the score at 1-1.
Picault’s Late Heroics Secure Miami’s Victory
With both teams battling fiercely, the game seemed destined for a draw. Guzan produced a stellar performance, making multiple saves, including a crucial stop with an outstretched leg to deny Messi in the 65th minute. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s Tristan Muyumba came close to restoring their lead, but his long-range effort was expertly tipped onto the woodwork by Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute when Jordi Alba, the former Barcelona star, delivered an inviting cross into the box. Picault rose above the defense to nod a downward header past Guzan, securing Miami’s crucial win and extending their unbeaten start to the season.
MLS Roundup: Other Key Matches
Elsewhere in MLS action, Nashville SC defeated second-placed Philadelphia Union 3-1 in the Eastern Conference. In the Western Conference, reigning MLS champions Los Angeles Galaxy earned their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw against Portland, though they remain bottom of the standings with one point from four games.
With this result, Miami continues to build momentum, reaffirming their status as title contenders in the 2025 MLS season. As Messi and company push forward, fans will eagerly anticipate their next challenge on the road to silverware.
SportsLigue