Lionel Messi and Inter Miami experienced a stunning upset in the first round of the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs on Saturday. The No. 1 seeded Miami side was eliminated after a 3-2 loss to the No. 9 seed Atlanta United in a decisive game of the best-of-three series held at home.
The match began positively for Miami, with midfielder Matías Rojas scoring the first goal in the 17th minute. However, Atlanta United responded quickly, with striker Jamal Thiaré netting two goals within a two-minute span to put Atlanta ahead by halftime.
Messi, known for his pivotal contributions, equalized with a goal in the 65th minute, marking his debut playoff score. Yet, Bartosz Slisz restored Atlanta’s lead with a header in the 76th minute, sealing one of the most historic upsets in MLS playoff history.
Despite their remarkable regular season, where Miami amassed a record 74 points and claimed the Supporters’ Shield, the playoff outcome was disappointing. Miami’s successful season also earned them an invitation to the FIFA Club World Cup, and they entered the playoffs as favorites for the MLS Cup.
Jordi Alba, a defender for Miami, expressed concerns about the playoff format, which he believes may lack fairness. He suggested that a championship clash between conference winners would be more equitable, while acknowledging Atlanta’s solid performance and the brilliance of their goalkeeper.
Following the best-of-three series, the playoffs will now transition to single-elimination matches for the conference semifinals, finals, and the MLS Cup, which is set for December 7. Atlanta United, having barely qualified for the playoffs on the last day of the regular season, will now face the No. 4 seed Orlando City in the Eastern Conference semifinal.
Atlanta’s interim manager, Rob Valentino, noted the heightened emotions among players and expressed hope for continued success as they embrace the joy of their victory amid tougher times for the club. The elimination of the top three seeds has opened up the Eastern Conference, setting the stage for an unpredictable playoff race.
This unexpected twist in the playoffs underscores the competitive nature of the MLS, reminding fans and teams alike that anything can happen in the knockout stages, making every match crucial.
In summary, this playoff season has already delivered electrifying moments, and with the difficulty faced by top seeds, the remaining teams have a unique opportunity to make their mark. Fans can look forward to an exciting conclusion as the tournament progresses.