Messi didn't score, but Inter Miami won the first leg of the round of 16 of the MLS playoffs
Liam Garcia
Dailysports's expert
Inter Miami claimed victory in their first MLS playoff Round of 16 match, despite Lionel Messi not scoring.
Facing Atlanta United, the regular-season champions fielded a star-studded lineup, with Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, and, of course, Messi all starting.
Luis Suárez wasted no time, scoring in the second minute after receiving a deft assist from Alba and smashing it past the goalkeeper.
However, Atlanta managed to equalize by the end of the first half, with Pedro Amador setting up Saba Lobzhanidze for a clean finish.
The 1-1 scoreline held until the 60th minute when Alba struck a stunning long-range shot from near midfield, assisted by a routine Messi pass, to reclaim the lead.
Miami dominated play throughout, recording significantly more attempts on goal than their opponents.
MLS Playoffs
Round of 16
Inter Miami 2–1 Atlanta United
Goals: Suárez 2’, Alba 60’ – Lobzhanidze 39’
The second leg of this matchup is set for next week, with Inter Miami traveling to Atlanta on the night of October 3.
