Lionel Messi Stars as Inter Miami Dominates Atlanta United 4-0
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Inter Miami CF clinched a commanding 4-0 victory over Atlanta United FC at Chase Stadium on Saturday night, led by captain Lionel Messi, who scored twice and provided an assist. Messi temporarily departed from international duties with the Argentina national team to ensure Miami secured crucial points.
Initially called up for friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico by Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, Messi opted to play in Miami’s final regular-season match at Chase Stadium instead.
Looking ahead, Miami is set to transition to their new venue, Miami Freedom Park, starting in 2026.
Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, discussed Messi’s involvement after the match: “I spoke with Scaloni, who informed me he would release Messi for our game. Thankfully, Leo was eager to play, even after training with the national team all week. It was evident he could help us, and he did so successfully.”
Messi opened the scoring by curling his shot into the top left corner, marking his 25th goal of the season. He later assisted teammate Jordi Alba, who scored with a deft lob over Atlanta goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert during his last home game in the regular MLS season before retiring at the end of the 2025 campaign.
Reflecting on his career while receiving a tribute from the club, Alba said, “I’ve enjoyed a great career and have been fortunate to work with wonderful teams and managers. This farewell video captures those special moments.”
The third goal for Miami came from Luis Suárez, who delivered a beautiful volley from the penalty area in the 61st minute. Messi then capped off the scoring with his second goal just before the end, bringing his season total to 26, placing him two goals ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga in the race for the MLS Golden Boot.
Mascherano remarked on the significance of Messi potentially winning the Golden Boot: “At this point, it won’t change his life significantly, but you can tell he will always strive to win.”
Teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who played in Argentina’s victory over Venezuela, enthusiastically celebrated Messi’s goals from the sidelines, along with other Albiceleste players.
Several Miami players, including Telasco Segovia, Noah Allen, Ian Fray, and Mateo Silvetti, missed the match due to international commitments.
There is a possibility Messi could rejoin the Argentina national team for the upcoming friendly match against Puerto Rico on Tuesday, as Scaloni expressed hope for his participation.
Miami is currently tied for second place with FC Cincinnati going into the last matchday of the regular season next Saturday. Miami will face Nashville, while Cincinnati will host Montreal. The Philadelphia Union has already secured the top spot in the Eastern Conference along with the Supporters’ Shield for the most points in the regular season.
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