On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Inter Miami striker Lionel Messi (10) attempts to handle the ball as teammate Tristan Muyumba (8) defends during the second half of their MLS match at Chase Stadium. SANTIAGO, DAVID At MiamiHerald.com, dsantiago@
Thiago Almada (10) of Atlanta United rushes with the ball while Sergio Busquets (5) of Inter Miami defends during the second half of an MLS match on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at Chase Stadium. MATIAS J. OCNER contact: mocner@miamiherald.com Martino stated, "Atlanta's ranking in the standings (11th place) is a little misleading, and they showed that against us." "They are a whole different team when they have their best players, like Thiago Almada, on the pitch." The first two goals for the visitors were scored by the quick-witted Georgian, Saba Lobjanidze.
Messi's long-range, left-footed golazo in the 62nd minute gave Miami supporters at Chase Stadium cause for optimism, but his magic was insufficient. Ten minutes later, Jamal Thiare increased the lead with a close-range shot. Known for their unending enthusiasm, the home crowd was quiet for the rest of the game. As the game progressed, Callender appeared agitated, and it was understandable why. After three solid performances from Miami's defensive line, Martino made sure to compliment centre defender Sergiy Kryvtsov, who had one of his greatest games, even though the defence appeared vulnerable against Atlanta. For their first game in ten days, Messi, Busquets, and Suarez were a little out of rhythm.
Compared to other opponents, Atlanta's defence was more successful in keeping Messi and Suarez contained. Coach Pineda of Atlanta stated, "I wanted to have always a three vs two against them, knowing that Messi and Suarez were going to be on top." "The players performed incredibly well during those periods. I wanted to be protected in the middle of the field during transition periods, so that was another reason why there were several tough moments in the game where we didn't read them or they used balls in the buildup. However, we were always a solid defensive base with three guys.
