Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, fresh off a record-breaking regular season, kick off their MLS Cup Playoff journey against a resurgent Atlanta United. Messi’s stellar form and Miami’s strong finish contrast with Atlanta’s turbulent season and recent turnaround.
Lionel Messi came on as a substitute for Inter Miami, but couldn’t find the net as Atlanta United equalized in the 84th minute to earn a 2-2 draw. Despite Messi’s entry, Atlanta’s Alexey Miranchuk’s powerful strike secured the tie, keeping Miami’s Supporters’ Shield hopes alive but with a slight setback.
Lionel Messi will be back for Inter Miami’s road trip, but the team will be without Sergio Busquets due to suspension. Despite a potential for limited minutes for Messi and other veterans, Miami aims to secure the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Lionel Messi will join Inter Miami for their upcoming road trip, including a crucial match against Atlanta United, but the team will be without Sergio Busquets due to suspension and might see limited minutes for key players like Messi himself. Miami aims to secure the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, currently leading the standings with a comfortable margin. Meanwhile, Atlanta fights for a playoff spot, struggling with recent form and a lack of goals.
After being sidelined by injury, Chicago Fire’s Andrew Gutman is poised to make his home debut. Traded to Colorado last summer, Gutman will reunite with his former team, Atlanta United, and is determined to make an impact. Despite last week’s loss, Gutman and head coach Frank Klopas remain optimistic about the team’s future. The Fire are currently without several key players due to injury, but are hopeful to have Brian Gutiérrez and Xherdan Shaqiri available for Saturday’s match against Atlanta. The team is also keeping an eye on the evolving stadium landscape in Chicago, with the possibility of a new home ground on the horizon.
