Lionel Messi played a decisive role in both of Inter Miami’s goals after announcing his retirement from international football, but his influence was not enough to secure victory as the reigning Major League Soccer champions were held to a 2–2 draw by Atlanta United on Saturday.
The match was delayed by around 90 minutes because of lightning and stormy weather, forcing both teams and supporters to wait before play could finally begin. Once the action got under way, however, the contest quickly developed into an entertaining and closely fought encounter, with Messi at the centre of much of Miami’s attacking play.
The Argentine opened up the game with his delivery from a set piece in the 32nd minute. Messi’s corner found Brazil midfielder Casemiro, who rose to head the ball into the net and give Miami the lead. It was a reminder of the quality the former Barcelona and Argentina captain can provide from dead-ball situations, even when he is not directly involved in the finish.
Atlanta responded almost immediately. Just three minutes after falling behind, former Newcastle United forward Miguel Almirón restored parity with a powerful low strike. The quick response ensured that Miami could not settle into the match after taking the lead.
Miami regained control shortly before half-time. Messi again played a central role, initiating an attack down the left before the move eventually produced an opportunity for Luis Suárez. The former Liverpool and Barcelona forward completed the move with a composed finish, putting Miami 2–1 ahead going into the interval.
The second half was more tense as Atlanta pushed for another equaliser while Miami sought to protect its advantage. The hosts were handed a major opportunity in the 73rd minute when they were awarded a penalty. Miami’s goalkeeper, however, made the save and preserved his side’s lead.
Atlanta refused to give up and continued to apply pressure. Their persistence eventually paid off late in the match when they were awarded another penalty in the 87th minute. Swiss striker Breel Embolo stepped up and converted from the spot, bringing the score level at 2–2.
Miami had little time to respond and neither side could find a winning goal before the final whistle. The points were therefore shared after a match in which Miami twice took the lead but could not hold on.
For Messi, the evening was significant despite the absence of a goal of his own. He was directly responsible for the assist for Casemiro’s opener and played a key role in the build-up to Suárez’s goal. His ability to influence matches through set pieces, movement and chance creation remains central to Miami’s attacking approach.
The draw also highlighted one of the challenges facing the defending MLS champions: converting periods of control into victories. Miami had twice been in front, yet Atlanta’s late pressure and two penalty opportunities ultimately changed the outcome. In the end, Messi’s contribution ensured Miami remained competitive, but Atlanta’s late fightback denied the champions all three points.
