Lionel Messi left the field with little emotion on his face after Atlanta United beat Inter Miami 3-2 in the MLS playoffs. The Atlanta team, considered the underdog, managed to secure a surprising victory in the best-of-three first round playoff series. Jamal Thiaré scored twice, including the winning goal by Bartosz Slisz in the 76th minute.
Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan made crucial saves throughout the game, helping his team secure the win. Despite Messi's efforts, including scoring a header to tie the match at 2-2, Inter Miami was unable to reclaim the lead. Interim coach Rob Valentino praised his team's collective effort and highlighted the importance of teamwork in their victory.
The victory marked the fifth must-win game for Atlanta United this season, including key matches against New York Red Bulls and Orlando City. The unexpected win has opened up opportunities for Atlanta United in the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they will face Orlando City. The result also came as a shock as Inter Miami, with Messi in their lineup, was the top seed in the playoffs.
Despite Inter Miami's impressive regular-season performance, which earned them the Supporters' Shield, the team failed to advance to the next round of the playoffs. The defeat served as a reminder that success in the regular season does not guarantee playoff success in MLS. Atlanta United's strong record against Inter Miami this season proved to be a deciding factor in the playoff upset.
The game was marked by a rapid exchange of goals in the first half, with Thiaré playing a crucial role in Atlanta United's victory. The match was not without controversy, with Inter Miami disputing a disallowed goal and a potential penalty kick. However, Atlanta United maintained their lead and emerged victorious, ending Inter Miami's season in a surprising turn of events.
The defeat serves as a humbling moment for Inter Miami, who had high expectations for the playoffs. Despite their star-studded lineup and record-breaking payroll, Inter Miami was unable to secure a win when it mattered most. Atlanta United's resilience and teamwork proved to be the determining factors in the playoff upset, showcasing the unpredictable nature of MLS playoffs.
Looking ahead, Atlanta United is eager to build on their momentum and continue their playoff journey. Coach Rob Valentino expressed hope for the team's future success, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their focus and determination. As the playoffs progress, Atlanta United aims to defy expectations and make a strong push for the MLS Cup title.