New Delhi: Lionel Messi’s dream of a successful MLS playoff campaign was shattered as Inter Miami suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat to Atlanta United in the decisive Game 3 of their first-round series. Despite Messi’s valiant efforts Atlanta’s unexpected triumph over the heavily favored Miami side sent shockwaves through the tournament. Jamal Thiare’s two goals and a crucial header by Bartosz Slisz in the 76th minute sealed the win marking a stunning upset that left many in disbelief.
Messi had chances to turn the tide in the dying minute but both late free kicks hit the wall of Atlanta defenders and he couldn’t break the deadlock. Earlier, Messi had equalized in the 65th minute with a powerful header and brought Miami level at 2-2 but his team couldn’t capitalize further and left their hopes in the balance until Atlanta claimed the final blow.
Lionel Messi just tied it up and things got chippy with the keeper
pic.twitter.com/WdTbBjDQNu
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) November 10, 2024
Brad Guzan, Atlanta’s goalkeeper emerged as a key player as he made seven critical saves to keep Miami’s potent attack at bay. Following Messi’s equalizer, tensions mounted as Luis Suarez who is known for his fearless and sometimes aggressive approach on the field, and he certainly didn’t hold back when tensions flared during the match. The forward was keen to seize a chance for a comeback and hurried to grab the ball for a quick restart. Guzan, however, stepped in to prevent him which led to a heated confrontation.
😅🇪🇨 Leo Campana salió en defensa de Messi y empujó al portero del Atlanta United.
Suárez tampoco se quedó quieto y le gritó en la cara.
𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘 𝗖𝗜𝗡𝗘 🚬
— StudioFútbol ⚽ (@StudioFutbol) November 10, 2024
Suarez was frustrated with Guzan’s interference sparked a brief scuffle that escalated when Leo Campana joined the fray and Messi was inadvertently caught in the clash. Amid the tension, Guzan found himself briefly entangled in his own net after the players’ aggressive attempts to retrieve the ball.
QUE FEO GESTO DE MESSI CON EL ARBITRO
Lo insulta y le golpea la espada!
Agresión al colegiado pic.twitter.com/SGbhPaQDwj
— Arielipillo (@arielipillo) September 29, 2024
The loss brought an abrupt and somber end to Messi’s first playoff run in the MLS, a season marked by high hopes but ultimately cut short by Atlanta’s resilience.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Inter Miami face a tough playoff exit against Atlanta which marks a bittersweet end to Messi’s debut MLS season. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
