Lionel Messi header ‘not enough’ as Inter Miami suffer huge upset in MLS Cup Playoffs

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami's season came to an early end as Atlanta United claimed a 3-2 win in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Lionel Messi header ‘not enough’ as Inter Miami suffer huge upset in MLS Cup Playoffs

Lionel Messi's header vs Atlanta United was not enough to avoid a 3-2 defeat in the MLS Cup Playoffs (Via X/@InterMiamiCF)

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami have been in electric form up until Sunday. The Herons suffered a shocking defeat against Atlanta United in the MLS Cup Playoffs. After two consecutive draws, a third game was to decide who will progress to the semi-final of the competition. A historic 3-2 win for the Herons at Chase Stadium meant that Messi and co.’s season came to an early end.

The game exploded to life in the 17th minute as Matias Rojas fired in a rebound from Lionel Messi‘s shot. The hosts’ lead didn’t last long as Jamal Thiare pulled his side level with a thumping half volley. Thiare then managed to turn the game around for the visitors as Atlanta took the lead just four minutes after going behind.

YouTube video

Messi then emphatically headed home from close range to beat Brad Guzan, who was in excellent form. Miami made several more attempts to take the lead but was denied by Guzan’s ‘superhuman’ efforts.

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The former USA International made seven saves throughout the game, with a few handing Atlanta the win. The visitors finally scored the winner in the 76th minute, courtesy of a Bartosz Slisz header.

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Looking back at Lionel Messi’s ‘incredible’ second season for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi has completely transformed Inter Miami ever since signing for them in July 2023. The World Cup winner helped his team reach the summit of the MLS, thereby claiming the Supporters’ Shield in early October. Despite being out injured on multiple occasions, the legendary No. 10 racked up impressive numbers for his side.

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Lionel Messi made 43 goal contributions this season for Inter Miami (Via X/@ESPNFC)

With 21 goals and 11 assists in 22 games, the 37-year-old is far from being ‘done’. Several fans praised the Argentine for carrying his side to yet another trophy, although a lot of blame was put on Miami’s defense. Time and again, defensive errors have costed the side, with another leading to Atlanta’s second goal on Saturday.

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With the season over, fans are hopeful that the Argentine can lead them to another trophy next year. His contract with David Beckham‘s club runs until the end of the 2025 season, earning him just over $20 million. Rumors claim that Messi and Luis Suarez will soon be joined by former Barcelona teammate Neymar Jr.