The anticipation was palpable at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, prepared to make his entrance for Inter Miami. Coming off a triumphant return with two goals and an assist last weekend, Messi was brought on as a substitute in the 61st minute, hoping to propel his team closer to the Supporters’ Shield.
However, despite Messi’s arrival, Atlanta United managed to snatch a 2-2 draw, thanks to a stunning strike from Alexey Miranchuk in the 84th minute.
Miami, aiming to extend their lead in the MLS standings, had taken the lead in the 29th minute through David Ruiz. Ruiz capitalized on a deflected pass, sliding the ball past Atlanta’s goalkeeper, Brad Guzan.
Atlanta equalized in the 56th minute when Saba Lobjanidze’s header slipped between the legs of Miami keeper Drake Callender.
Just when it seemed like Miami was going to regain the lead, Leo Campana’s deflected free kick found the back of the net, putting the Herons back in front.
But Miranchuk’s powerful left-footed shot from 20 meters out shattered Miami’s hopes for a comfortable victory.
Messi, despite his limited time on the field, showcased his brilliance with a backfooted pass to Federico Redondo, who unfortunately missed the return pass for a potential goal.
In stoppage time, Messi’s dazzling dribbling skills saw him weave past three Atlanta players, but he couldn’t get a shot off.
The draw, while a slight setback for Miami’s Supporters’ Shield ambitions, keeps them comfortably ahead of the LA Galaxy, who played later on Wednesday.
The match was a thrilling spectacle, filled with numerous scoring opportunities for both teams. Messi’s presence brought a buzz to the stadium, but ultimately, it was Atlanta’s resilience that earned them a point.
