The anticipation was palpable as Inter Miami, the top seed boasting a star-studded roster led by Lionel Messi, kicked off their MLS playoff campaign against a feisty Atlanta United squad. The opening match of this enticing best-of-three series did not disappoint, delivering end-to-end action, stunning goals, and late drama that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Messi’s Magic Sets the Stage
From the outset, all eyes were on Messi, the maestro tasked with orchestrating Inter Miami’s pursuit of MLS Cup glory. The Argentine superstar wasted no time making his presence felt, carving out chances and testing Atlanta’s resolute defense.
Messi’s mesmerizing footwork nearly broke the deadlock in the sixth minute, forcing a sprawling save from Brad Guzan. Undeterred, Messi continued to probe, rattling the crossbar and drawing gasps from the capacity crowd with each audacious attempt.
Suarez Strikes Early
While Messi dazzled, it was his longtime teammate Luis Suarez who opened the scoring. With barely a minute on the clock, Suarez pounced on a defensive lapse to give Inter Miami a dream start. The Uruguayan’s predatory instincts were on full display as he coolly slotted home, sending the pink-clad supporters into raptures.
Atlanta’s Resolute Response
Despite the early setback, Atlanta United refused to wilt under the South Florida sun. The visitors, who had already proven their ability to trouble Inter Miami during the regular season, gradually grew into the game. Their persistence paid off in the 39th minute when Saba Lobjanidze ghosted behind the defense and beat Drake Callender from close range, leveling the scores heading into halftime.
Alba’s Moment of Magic
The second half unfolded as a tense, tactical battle, with both sides probing for weaknesses. It was a moment of individual brilliance that ultimately tipped the scales in Inter Miami’s favor. In the 60th minute, Messi, ever the provider, slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of a surging Jordi Alba. The Spanish left-back, renowned for his marauding runs, unleashed a blistering drive from 25 yards out that arrowed into the top corner, leaving Guzan helpless.
Jordi Alba scores screamer to make it 2-1 Inter Miami!
Lionel Messi tees up Jordi Alba who unleashes a fizzing drive from 25 yards out as Inter Miami retakes the lead.
Late Drama and Injury Concerns
As the clock ticked down, Atlanta threw caution to the wind in search of an equalizer. Inter Miami, however, held firm, repelling wave after wave of attack. The hosts’ joy was tempered in the dying moments when homegrown defender Ian Fray, who has already endured three ACL tears, crumpled to the ground with a non-contact injury. The sight of Fray being helped off the pitch cast a somber note on an otherwise triumphant night.
We are all a little bit sad. We’ll wait to see what injury he has.
– Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino on Ian Fray’s injury
The Road Ahead
With the first-leg victory secured, Inter Miami will now turn their attention to the decisive second leg in Atlanta. The Five Stripes, buoyed by their home support, will undoubtedly fancy their chances of turning the tie around. For Messi and company, the challenge is clear: weather the storm in hostile territory and book their place in the next round.
As the MLS playoffs gather steam, Inter Miami’s star-studded ensemble has passed its first test. However, tougher trials await as they navigate the unforgiving knockout rounds. With Messi pulling the strings, Suarez leading the line, and a supporting cast hungry for success, Inter Miami’s playoff journey promises to be a captivating spectacle. The road to MLS Cup glory is long and winding, but for now, the South Florida faithful can savor a hard-fought victory and dream of the possibilities that lie ahead.
