Inter Miami edged out Atlanta United 2-1 in an intense playoff opener on Friday, with Jordi Alba’s stunning second-half goal proving the difference. Lionel Messi, making his first MLS playoff appearance, played a crucial role, assisting Alba’s go-ahead goal in the 60th minute that secured Miami the victory in this best-of-three series.
Miami started strong, with Luis Suárez scoring just two minutes into the game after a setup from Diego Gómez. Despite Miami’s early momentum, Atlanta fought back, equalizing in the 39th minute with a well-placed shot from Saba Lobjanidze that eluded goalkeeper Drake Callender.
Messi, whose precision passing was on full display, had several close attempts but was repeatedly denied by Atlanta’s Brad Guzan, who made eight crucial saves to keep his team in the match. In the 60th minute, however, Messi set up Alba with a pinpoint pass that the defender drove powerfully into the net from outside the box, sealing the game for Miami.
Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino lauded his team’s perseverance, especially as Atlanta had previously defeated Miami with Messi in the lineup. “We knew they’d be tough, but we stuck to our game plan and found a way through,” Martino said.
The victory was bittersweet, however, as Miami lost defender Ian Fray to an apparent knee injury late in the game. Martino expressed concern over Fray’s condition, saying, “It’s a tough loss. We’re hopeful for a quick recovery.”
The series will continue on Nov. 2 in Atlanta, where a draw would see Miami advance to the next playoff round.
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