MLS Playoffs: Lionel Messi scores but Inter Miami gets eliminated with shocking Home defeat

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Lionel Messi found the net but it was not enough as Inter Miami got eliminated from the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs on Saturday (November 9).

It was a tight encounter between Inter Miami and Atlanta United, which the latter won 3-2 to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals. The victory ensured a 2-1 series win for Atlanta, which is played for zonal qualifications in the Major League Soccer (MLS).

Inter Miami won the first match of the three-match series 2-1, while Atlanta United pegged them back with a 2-1 victory in the second match of the series. Though Miami played at home, Atlanta managed to stunned the star-studded team in front of their supporters.

The match itself was a rollercoaster, beginning with Inter Miami taking the lead through Matias Rojas after Messi's initial shot was parried away. However, the joy was short-lived as Atlanta United responded rapidly, with Jamal Thiare leveling the score soon after and then adding another to his tally, turning the game on its head. Despite attempts to equalize, including a goal by Diego Gomez that was disallowed for offside, Miami struggled to penetrate Atlanta's defense effectively.

Atlanta's goalkeeper, Brad Guzan, put on a masterclass performance, particularly in the second half, thwarting Miami's efforts to find the back of the net. Lionel Messi found the equalizer in the 65th minute but then a magnificent header from Bartosz Slisz won the match for Atlanta United.

Following this victory, Atlanta United is set to face Orlando in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, with the New York Red Bulls and New York City FC competing in the other semi-final.

Inter Miami's journey in the MLS this season ends without the playoffs but the club finished top in the Eastern Conference regular season and also won the Supporters' Shield.