Lionel Messi’s Return Sparks Late Drama as Inter Miami Steals Victory Against Atlanta United
In a highly anticipated rematch of the 2024 MLS playoffs, Inter Miami and Atlanta United faced off at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday night, with both teams hungry for a crucial win. The match, full of late drama, saw Lionel Messi return to the starting XI and deliver a thrilling performance to help Miami claim a dramatic 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. This win not only marked revenge for Miami after being knocked out by the Five Stripes in the postseason, but it also propelled the Herons to the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Atlanta taking an early lead only for Messi to equalize shortly after. The contest remained tightly contested throughout, with a thrilling late winner from substitute Fafa Picault securing all three points for the visitors in the 88th minute. This victory was a testament to the resilience and talent of Inter Miami as they continue their bid for supremacy in Major League Soccer (MLS).
In this article, we will take a closer look at the key moments of the game, the standout performances, and what this result means for both teams moving forward in the 2025 MLS season.
A Rollercoaster Start: Atlanta’s Early Advantage
From the very first whistle, Atlanta United was eager to make their mark. The Five Stripes, who had stunned Miami in the 2024 MLS playoffs, came out with intent and managed to open the scoring just 11 minutes into the match. Emmanuel Latte Lath, the MLS record signing for Atlanta, got on the end of a well-delivered cross and thumped a powerful header past Miami’s goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
It seemed as though Atlanta might have the upper hand, but Miami’s response was swift and decisive. The hosts’ joy was short-lived as Inter Miami capitalized on a defensive error from the Atlanta midfield to level the match just nine minutes later.
Messi Strikes: The Argentine Superstar Responds
Lionel Messi, who had been a key figure for Miami throughout the season, made sure to deliver when his team needed him the most. In the 20th minute, a sloppy giveaway from Atlanta’s Bartosz Slisz outside the box put the ball at Messi’s feet. The Argentine maestro seized the opportunity, dribbling past defender Derrick Williams before elegantly chipping the ball over goalkeeper Brad Guzan to score his first MLS goal of the season.
The goal not only brought Miami back into the match but also highlighted Messi’s quality and ability to make a difference in tight situations. With the match tied 1-1, both teams pushed forward, but Atlanta’s defense, led by Guzan, stood strong, denying Miami on several occasions.
Guzan’s Heroic Saves: The Atlanta Goalkeeper Shines
Brad Guzan’s performance was one of the highlights of the night for Atlanta United. Despite the team’s early setback, Guzan made several crucial saves to keep Atlanta in the game. The veteran goalkeeper, who had been a key figure in Atlanta’s postseason win over Miami in 2024, was called upon numerous times to deny Miami’s attacking threats.
Guzan was particularly impressive in the second half, when he made a world-class save to deny Messi from close range near the 60th minute. His reflexes and shot-stopping ability kept Atlanta in the game, but unfortunately, the 40-year-old’s heroics were not enough to prevent Miami from claiming all three points.
Late Drama: Fafa Picault’s Dramatic Header
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Miami found the breakthrough in the 88th minute through substitute Fafa Picault. The MLS veteran, who had come on late in the game, was perfectly positioned to head home a corner kick from Jordi Alba, sending the ball across the box and into the back of the net. The goal sent the Miami bench into ecstasy, with teammates swarming Picault in celebration.
The dramatic winner ensured that Miami would leave Mercedes-Benz Stadium with all three points, securing a 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. This win not only avenged their playoff defeat to the Five Stripes in 2024 but also propelled them to the top of the Eastern Conference standings, a position they will look to hold onto as the season progresses.
Player Ratings: How the Herons Fared
While Messi and Picault were the standout players in terms of key contributions, several other members of the Inter Miami squad played crucial roles in the team’s victory. Here’s a look at how the players performed during the match:
Goalkeeper & Defense
Rocco Rios Novo (7/10)
Thrown into the starting XI due to Oscar Ustari’s suspension and Drake Callender’s injury, Rios Novo delivered a solid performance in goal. He made a crucial save midway through the second half and remained calm under pressure, providing a positive presence in the Miami net.
Jordi Alba (6/10)
Alba had a decent outing on the left flank, working well offensively but failing to provide the final ball that Miami needed. His defensive work was solid, but he could have been more influential going forward.
Maxi Falcon (6/10)
Falcon was powerful and consistent in his defensive duties but was occasionally caught out of position. His partnership with Noah Allen will likely continue to improve as they build chemistry throughout the season.
Noah Allen (6/10)
Allen showed composure in 1v1 situations, but his possession play was shaky at times. A sloppy moment early in the second half nearly gave Atlanta a goal, but he redeemed himself with solid defending.
Gonzalo Lujan (5/10)
Lujan struggled defensively against Atlanta winger Saba Lobzhanidze, who repeatedly beat him down the flank. Despite this, Lujan’s overall contribution didn’t diminish the team’s performance, and he remains a valuable player for Miami.
Midfield & Attack
Lionel Messi (8/10)
Messi was the driving force for Miami throughout the match, scoring the equalizer and contributing to the team’s attacking play. His movement and technical ability were on full display, and his first MLS goal of the season was a thing of beauty.
Victor Ulloa (6/10)
Ulloa worked hard in the midfield, breaking up plays and helping control possession. However, his offensive contributions were minimal, and he was more focused on defensive duties throughout the match.
Jean Mota (6/10)
Mota had a solid outing in the center of the park, linking up well with the attacking players. He was involved in some key passes but lacked the final product to create more significant chances.
Gonzalo Higuaín (5/10)
Higuaín struggled to make an impact on the game, often isolated up front and unable to influence the attacking flow as much as he would have liked. His performance was a bit below his usual standards.
Fafa Picault (7/10)
Picault’s late header secured the win for Miami, and his energetic performance off the bench proved invaluable. His ability to find space and capitalize on a set-piece opportunity made him a crucial figure in the match’s final moments.
What Does This Victory Mean for Inter Miami?
With this important win, Inter Miami climbs to the top of the Eastern Conference standings, overtaking Philadelphia Union. While they still trail the Vancouver Whitecaps in the overall race for the Supporters’ Shield, Miami’s recent form, boosted by Messi’s return and the leadership of head coach Javier Mascherano, suggests that they are well-equipped to challenge for the top spot in the league.
The Herons will look to build on this victory as they continue their campaign in MLS, with hopes of securing a high playoff seed and potentially making a deep postseason run. The team’s ability to bounce back after the early setback and fight for a dramatic late win demonstrates their resilience and determination.
For Atlanta United, the loss was a bitter blow. Despite their early lead and strong individual performances, the Five Stripes couldn’t hold onto their advantage, and the late goal from Picault will leave them with questions to answer as they aim to stay competitive in the crowded Eastern Conference.
Conclusion: A Perfect Return for Messi and Miami
Lionel Messi’s return to the starting lineup for Inter Miami couldn’t have come at a better time. His crucial goal and the dramatic winner from Fafa Picault ensured that Miami would exact revenge on Atlanta United for their 2024 postseason defeat. With this victory, Miami not only secures three important points but also solidifies their place at the top of the Eastern Conference.
As the season progresses, Inter Miami will look to continue their strong form and make a serious push for silverware. With Messi leading the charge and a solid supporting cast around him, the Herons are shaping up to be one of the most formidable teams in MLS.
Penulis: M. Fadhil