Inter Miami and Lionel Messi’s Dramatic Playoff Exit: A Season of Highs and Lows Ends in Atlanta
In a gripping turn of events, Inter Miami’s journey through the 2024 Major League Soccer playoffs came to an unexpected end with a 3-2 loss against Atlanta United in the third and decisive game of their Eastern Conference series at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. The game marked the end of an otherwise remarkable season for Miami, led by soccer icon Lionel Messi, and left fans wondering about the future of this star-studded team.
Miami’s Record-Breaking Season Falls Short
After clinching the top spot in the Eastern Conference and setting a new MLS record for points in a season, Miami had been a formidable force. The team, boasting an array of international talent including Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, aimed to go all the way. But in a surprising upset, they were toppled by Atlanta, a team that only narrowly made it into the playoffs.
Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino, visibly disappointed, remarked, “In this last part of the year, we get used to achieving the objectives that we set for ourselves, and we have not been able to achieve the most important one.”
Thrilling Moments, Controversies, and Missed Chances
The high-stakes matchup was filled with excitement and controversy. Matías Rojas initially gave Miami the lead in the 17th minute, but Atlanta’s Jamal Thiare quickly leveled the score and put his team ahead just two minutes later. Miami had glimpses of hope with a Messi header in the second half, which leveled the score again, but defensive lapses and a strong showing from Atlanta’s veteran goalkeeper, Brad Guzan, ultimately sealed Miami’s fate.
Martino’s frustration was evident as he called out the officials for missing a potential penalty kick: “Luis’ shot hits him in the hand, and the referee did not even check… It’s a decisive play.”
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Messi and Miami?
This season has undeniably been a period of growth for Miami, which Martino emphasized. “If you think about where we were in November last year, there is progress as far as the club is concerned.” Despite the playoff disappointment, there’s a sense of anticipation as Miami eyes the 2025 season and the expanded 32-team Club World Cup. With Messi and potentially Suárez staying on, the club’s ambitions remain high.
As the team looks to build its roster and strengthen for another title run, fans can expect Inter Miami to come back with renewed determination. The journey may have ended sooner than expected this year, but for Miami, the future holds promise.
