At 37 years of age, Lionel Messi found the back of the net as Inter Miami exacted revenge on Atlanta United for their playoff departure last season, clinching a 2-1 victory that propelled them to the top of the Eastern Conference in Major League Soccer on Sunday.
Veteran Haitian international Fafa Picault delivered the decisive goal with a header in the 89th minute, securing a vital win that maintained Miami’s unbeaten streak to start the season.
This victory was particularly gratifying for Miami, who had suffered a surprising elimination at the hands of Atlanta in last season’s playoffs, marking one of the biggest upsets in MLS history.
The match, witnessed by 42,843 fans at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, was a thrilling encounter that appeared destined for a draw thanks to a stellar performance from veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who thwarted Miami’s efforts throughout.
However, Miami seized the last-gasp victory when Picault soared high to connect with a precise cross from former Barcelona star Jordi Alba.
Picault executed a powerful downward header that found its way past Guzan after a desperate dive, nestling into the far corner of the net.
Earlier in the match, Atlanta had set the tone with an opening goal in the 11th minute, courtesy of Ivory Coast international Emmanuel Latte Lath.
The goal came when Brooks Lennon capitalised on a deep pass from Miguel Almiron down the right side, touched the ball before delivering a cross for Latte Lath, whose header looped into the net.
Yet, Miami was quick to respond, with Messi taking advantage of some lacklustre defending from Atlanta to level the score in the 20th minute.
Messi pounced on a defensive slip from Bartosz Silsz on the edge of the area, stealing the ball before evading Derrick Williams and deftly lifting a finish over Guzan.
Both teams generated opportunities in the second half; Atlanta’s Tristan Muyumba unleashed a powerful long-range shot that was expertly tipped onto the crossbar by Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
At the other end, Guzan was crucial, making several saves to keep Messi at bay, including a crucial block in the 65th minute with an outstretched leg to deny the 37-year-old.
League Highlights
In other MLS fixtures on Sunday, Nashville SC triumphed over second-placed Philadelphia Union with a 3-1 win in the Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, in the Western Conference, reigning MLS champions Los Angeles Galaxy managed to secure their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw against Portland, although they remain at the bottom of the standings with just one point from four matches.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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