Lionel Messi scored a goal as Inter Miami defeated Atlanta United 2-1, moving to the top of Major League Soccer‘s Eastern Conference standings. The victory helped Miami avenge their playoff elimination from the previous season.
Haitian international Fafa Picault sealed the win with a header in the 89th minute, helping Miami maintain their unbeaten record this season.
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The match at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, attended by 42,843 fans, appeared headed for a draw due to Brad Guzan’s exceptional goalkeeping performance.
Former Barcelona player Jordi Alba provided the assist for Picault’s winning goal. The 34-year-old striker’s downward header beat Guzan and found the far post.
Atlanta took an early lead in the 11th minute through Ivory Coast forward Emmanuel Latte Lath. The goal came from Miguel Almiron’s deep pass to Brooks Lennon, who crossed for Latte Lath to head home.
Messi equalised in the 20th minute after capitalising on defensive errors. He dispossessed Polish midfielder Bartosz Silsz near the penalty area, manoeuvred past Derrick Williams, and chipped the ball over Guzan.
Both teams created scoring opportunities in the second half. Atlanta’s Paris-born midfielder Tristan Muyumba’s long-range shot was deflected onto the woodwork by Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
Guzan made multiple saves to deny Messi, including a crucial stop with his leg in the 65th minute.
In other MLS action, Nashville SC claimed a 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union, who are second in the Eastern Conference.
In the Western Conference, defending champions Los Angeles Galaxy earned their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw at Portland. Galaxy remain at the bottom of the standings with one point from four matches.
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