Lionel Messi’s first MLS playoff game was a spectacle that captivated fans worldwide, thanks to a dedicated “Messi-cam” that tracked his every move during Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. Streamed live on MLS’s TikTok account, the unique camera feed highlighted the intense excitement surrounding Messi’s presence in Major League Soccer and his pivotal role in Miami’s rise to the playoffs. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has transformed the team, drawing global attention and boosting the club’s performance and popularity.
The game itself delivered on the drama, with Messi’s every touch, shot, and even moment of stillness under the microscope. Right from the first whistle, Miami set a quick pace, with Messi’s longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate, Luis Suarez, scoring in the opening minutes. The early goal electrified the Fort Lauderdale crowd, and Messi joined in the celebrations, sharing a smile and an embrace with Suarez. This camaraderie between two legends set a celebratory tone and energized fans, who stood for much of the game, phones aloft, hoping to capture their own glimpse of Messi’s magic.
Though Messi didn’t score, he showcased his remarkable skill and playmaking ability with multiple attempts on goal. One particularly memorable moment came as he maneuvered past a defender and struck a powerful shot from outside the box, forcing Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan into a difficult deflection over the goal. Moments later, Messi hit the crossbar, with fans gasping as the ball came agonizingly close. Guzan’s efforts frustrated Messi on multiple attempts, and each close call drew visible reactions from the 37-year-old star, with his hands on his head and his gaze skyward in disbelief.
Messi’s influence extended beyond his shots on goal; his mere presence set the tone for Miami’s attack and kept the crowd on edge throughout. Fans in the stands leaned forward every time he moved into position, and the stadium pulsed with anticipation each time he approached the ball. This intense focus on Messi underscored his impact on Inter Miami’s season. With Messi leading the way, the team set league records, clinching the No. 1 seed with 74 points and an impressive .765 winning percentage. Despite injuries and national team commitments that kept him out for nearly half the season, Messi finished with 20 goals and 16 assists. Alongside Suarez, he became part of the first duo in MLS history to each score 20 goals in a season for the same team—a testament to his influence.
Though Messi didn’t find the net against Atlanta, his contributions fueled the team’s momentum and optimism. His on-field connection with Suarez and his precision in creating chances underscored his importance to Miami’s success. The “Messi-cam” captured not only his play but also the unrelenting excitement and hope he inspires among fans.
Messi’s MLS playoff debut was unforgettable, filled with both remarkable play and dramatic moments. As the playoff series continues, fans eagerly anticipate seeing how Messi will further shape Miami’s journey and add another storied chapter to his legendary career.
