In a truly unforgettable night, Lionel Messi orchestrated a brilliant 4-0 win for Inter Miami against Atlanta United, sealing a crucial playoff home advantage and marking a heartfelt send-off for club legend Jordi Alba at Chase Stadium. Messi’s two goals and an assist underscored his monumental impact, propelling the Herons into a strong position as they head into the final matchday of the season.
The atmosphere was electric at Chase Stadium for what was not just a critical Major League Soccer (MLS) regular-season match, but also a momentous occasion for Inter Miami. The club celebrated its final regular-season home game at the stadium before its anticipated move to Miami Freedom Park in 2026, culminating in a dominant 4-0 victory over Atlanta United, largely thanks to a scintillating performance from Lionel Messi.
Messi Shines with a Brace and an Assist
The Argentine captain, who was granted a temporary release from international duty by Argentina’s manager to play for his club, delivered a masterclass. Messi opened the scoring in the 39th minute, skillfully cushioning a pass from Baltasar Rodríguez before curling it into the far top corner. His individual brilliance continued into the second half.
In the 87th minute, Messi sealed his brace, finishing a give-and-go play with Jordi Alba to claim his league-leading 26th goal of the campaign. This performance places him two goals ahead of 2023 Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga of Los Angeles FC and three ahead of Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge with one match remaining. His 44 goal contributions (26 goals, 18 assists) are the second-highest in a single MLS season, only trailing LAFC’s Carlos Vela who recorded 49 in 2019, as reported by The Associated Press.
A Poignant Farewell for Jordi Alba
The night was also dedicated to veteran defender Jordi Alba, who recently announced his retirement at the end of the season. Alba played a pivotal role in the match, scoring Miami’s second goal in the 52nd minute from a precise diagonal pass by Messi. After the match, the 36-year-old was honored with a special ceremony, marking his final regular-season home appearance.
Alba’s tenure with Inter Miami has been impactful, registering 11 goals and 27 assists in 64 appearances. His contributions, alongside Messi and Suárez, have been instrumental in transforming the team’s fortunes. Messi’s assist on Alba’s goal was his 18th of the season, tying him with Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC for the league lead in assists, according to ESPN.
Suárez Adds to the Goal Fest
The attacking prowess of Inter Miami’s legendary core was on full display. Luis Suárez, another key member of this formidable trio, volleyed in Miami’s third goal in the 61st minute with a spectacular strike from outside the box, capitalizing on a miscued clearance. This unassisted goal marked Suárez’s 10th of the season, accompanying his 10 assists, showcasing his consistent offensive threat.
The combination of Messi, Alba, and Suárez has been a game-changer for Inter Miami, proving that their temporary reunion can indeed produce unforgettable moments and significantly alter the landscape of the MLS Eastern Conference.
Playoff Picture and Eastern Conference Battle
This decisive victory ensures Inter Miami secures at least the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, guaranteeing them home-field advantage in the first round of the MLS playoffs. The Herons are now tied on 62 points with FC Cincinnati for second place in the Eastern Conference, heading into the final matchday.
The battle for second place will be decided on Decision Day, with Inter Miami facing Nashville SC and FC Cincinnati also playing their final fixture. The goal difference or head-to-head record could prove crucial if both teams finish with the same points. Meanwhile, Atlanta United, already eliminated by Miami in last season’s first round, slumped to their third straight defeat and remains winless in five matches.
Key Match Details and Defensive Efforts
Despite both sides missing players due to the international window, Inter Miami’s depth and star power shone through. Goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo secured his third clean sheet of the season with three saves in his sixth start, highlighting the team’s defensive solidity.
Atlanta United’s young goalkeeper, Jayden Hibbert, made six saves, including several crucial stops against Messi early in the game to keep the score level for the initial 21 minutes. However, the visitors also faced an early setback with center-back Stian Gregersen leaving the game in the 14th minute due to an apparent hamstring issue, adding to their injury woes this season.
Looking Ahead: Decision Day and Playoff Hopes
Inter Miami fans eagerly anticipate the regular season’s conclusion, as the team battles for the higher seed and looks forward to a strong playoff run. The legacy of Chase Stadium was celebrated with a performance that perfectly encapsulated the magic that Messi, Alba, and Suárez have brought to the club. This collective effort, combined with strategic play, sets a promising stage for Inter Miami’s pursuit of MLS Cup glory.
Scoring Summary:
- Messi 39′ (Assist: Rodríguez)
- Alba 52′ (Assist: Messi)
- Suárez 61′ (Unassisted)
- Messi 87′ (Assist: Alba)
