Atlanta United Eliminates Lionel Messi's Inter Miami from MLS Cup Playoffs

Atlanta United delivered a stunning upset by defeating Inter Miami 3-2, thereby eliminating Lionel Messi's team from the playoffs. The match, held in Fort Lauderdale, was marked by a controversial moment when Bartosz Slisz scored the decisive header in the 76th minute while Miami defender Tomas Aviles lay injured on the field. Despite the controversy, referee Lukasz Szpala allowed play to continue, adhering to the rule that only suspected head injuries warrant an immediate stoppage.

Atlanta's victory was not just about Slisz's goal. Veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan played a pivotal role throughout the series, making seven crucial saves in the final match to keep his team in contention. "Brad was phenomenal," said Atlanta's coach, highlighting Guzan's influence in securing the win.

The game began with Inter Miami taking an early lead in the 17th minute through Matias Rojas, who capitalized on a rebound after Guzan parried away a shot from Messi. However, Atlanta quickly responded with Jamal Thiare scoring twice within four minutes, turning the tide in favor of the ninth-seeded team. Thiare's first goal came in the 19th minute, followed by another just two minutes later, showcasing Atlanta's resilience and determination.

Lionel Messi, despite his efforts, could not prevent the defeat. He managed to score his first postseason goal with a second-half equalizer, a rare header that briefly leveled the score. Yet, it was not enough to carry Miami through to the next round. "We gave it our all, but sometimes things don't go your way," Messi remarked post-match.

This unexpected result sends Atlanta United forward to face Orlando City in the Eastern Conference semifinals after the November international break. The victory is considered one of the most surprising upsets in MLS playoff history, as all top three Eastern seeds have now been eliminated.