In the first-round MLS playoff opener, Inter Miami clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Atlanta United, fueled by critical contributions from Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez. The game showcased Inter Miami’s tenacity and tactical adaptability, traits that propelled them to the playoffs as the top-seeded team.
Inter Miami set an aggressive pace from the start, with Suarez finding the net just one minute into the game. Messi followed suit, creating several high-quality chances to extend Miami’s lead in the first half. However, Atlanta’s goalkeeper Brad Guzan delivered a stellar performance, repeatedly denying Messi and preventing Miami from capitalizing on their lead. Guzan thwarted three promising attempts by Messi, pushing one shot wide, tipping another over the crossbar, and watching the post deny a third. Without Guzan’s heroics, Miami’s early lead could have easily ballooned, but Atlanta stayed within striking distance.
Atlanta, unfazed by their underdog status, struck back. In the 39th minute, Saba Lobjanidze slipped behind Miami’s defense to score from close range, leveling the game at 1-1. With the tie, Atlanta kept the momentum even going into halftime, reminding Miami that they had previously bested them with Messi in the lineup earlier in the season. Atlanta’s persistence and ability to withstand pressure revealed a team prepared to battle and showed why Miami couldn’t afford to underestimate them.
The second half saw Messi continuing to press, including a near-miss free kick from 25 yards out that curled just wide. In the 60th minute, Messi shifted his approach, recognizing the need for a change. He delivered a precise assist to Alba, who seized the moment, breaking the deadlock and putting Miami back in the lead. The moment captured Messi’s adaptability and field vision, proving that even if he couldn’t score himself, he could still dictate the game. Alba’s goal set off a jubilant celebration, with Messi and Alba embracing to mark the critical breakthrough.
Despite Guzan’s eight saves, which kept Atlanta in the game, his efforts were not enough to secure the win. With the series now headed to Atlanta for Game 2 on November 2, Guzan remains optimistic, urging his team to rally. “Our backs are against the wall,” he acknowledged, highlighting the high stakes of their next matchup.
A somber note marred Inter Miami’s victory. Young defender Ian Fray, a South Florida native with a history of three ACL injuries, left the field in the 90th minute after a noncontact injury to his right leg. Fray’s early exit was a blow to Miami’s morale, with teammates and fans anxiously awaiting updates on his condition. Head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino acknowledged the mixed emotions, balancing the joy of the win with concern for Fray’s health.
As the series moves to Atlanta, Inter Miami faces a critical test. With Messi leading the way and teammates like Alba and Suarez stepping up, Miami will aim to close out the series in the next match. But with Fray’s injury weighing on the team, Miami’s victory is bittersweet. Their path forward requires not only skill but resilience, both for the playoffs and for Fray’s recovery.
