Lionel Messi and Inter Miami have been eliminated from the MLS Cup early round of the playoffs as the trophy favorite and Supporters Shield winner, who set a record for regular season points in 2024, were stunned 3-2 at home in the final match of the first round on Saturday by ninth-seeded Atlanta United.
Miami took an early first-half lead when Matias Rojas opened the scoring in the 17th minute, but that lead would only last for two minutes. Atlanta United striker Jamal Thiare scored a quickfire brace in the first half to give Atlanta a first-half lead.
Messi pulled the hosts level midway through the second, but Atlanta midfielder Bartosz Slisz scored the eventual game-winner with about a quarter-hour of regular time remaining. Atlanta United goalkeeper Guzan was in incredible form as he made eight saves on Saturday, including several stops on Messi.
Atlanta will now face Orlando in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, with the New York Red Bulls and New York City clashing in the other conference semi. Meanwhile, Inter Miami will now prepare to host the opening match of the Club World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
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