Atlanta United Clashes with Miami: Can They Upset Messi’s Squad?

After an exciting victory in a penalty shootout earlier this week, Atlanta United is set to face Inter Miami CF in Game 1 of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One Best-of-3 series in Fort Lauderdale. The match comes after Atlanta’s successful advancement past CF Montréal, where goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a vital save during the shootout, and all five Atlanta players successfully converted their penalties. This matchup pits them against the top-seeded team, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners. In this Best-of-3 series, there will be no aggregate scoring; therefore, each match must have a winner. If the score is tied at the end of regulation, the game will proceed directly to a penalty shootout, similar to their previous match.

To secure a win, Atlanta needs to be more effective in transition moments as they arise. The team has shown improved form on the road recently, currently on a five-match unbeaten streak. They have scored four goals over their last two away matches, clinching a 2-1 victory against Orlando and earning a 2-2 draw at Montréal. Maintaining a high offensive level will be crucial for their success against Miami.

A significant focus for Atlanta will be on managing Miami’s attack, led by star player Lionel Messi, who had 36 goal contributions in just 19 matches this season. Miami also boasts Luis Suárez, who netted 20 goals and provided nine assists. Disrupting their passing sequences, especially around the penalty area, will be essential for Atlanta’s defense. They must remain vigilant and track Messi’s movements, particularly his late runs into the box. A compact defensive strategy could give Atlanta a favorable chance at achieving victory.

Another critical factor for Atlanta will be scoring early and maintaining a lead. The team has experienced strong results when getting the first goal, with a record of 9 wins, 3 losses, and 3 draws when scoring first. Contrarily, their record when conceding the first goal is much weaker at 1 win, 11 losses, and 7 draws. If they can hold onto a lead into halftime, their record shows they are 6-0-2. Despite being the third match in a week, Atlanta’s players are expected to leverage their recent momentum to get the upper hand against Miami.

Midfielder Alexey Miranchuk will be pivotal in creating scoring opportunities. He ranks among the league’s top chance creators since early October, with 11 chances created, placing him third in MLS during this period. If Miranchuk can continue to generate opportunities for his teammates and Atlanta can convert those chances, they aim to take a lead in the series.

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