After a three-match hiatus, Lionel Messi returned to action against Cavalier and scored in the Concacaf Champions Cup match. He continued his scoring streak, netting a goal against Atlanta United in his second consecutive game. His goal contributed to Inter Miami's 2-1 victory in the league.
With this win, Inter Miami has climbed to the top of the Eastern Conference league table in Major League Soccer (MLS). They have 10 points from 4 matches, while Philadelphia, who have played the same number of matches, have 9 points. Atlanta United is in 12th place with 4 points.
Atlanta United took the lead in the 11th minute at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Emmanuel Latte converted a beautiful header from Brooks Lennon's cross from the right flank, beating the Inter Miami goalkeeper. Messi equalized for Miami with a brilliant goal.
In the 20th minute, Messi intercepted the ball from Bartosz Slisz near Atlanta's penalty box. He then dribbled past a defender and sent the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper into the net. This was his fourth goal in 5 matches this season, and his second in the league.
Just before halftime, Messi nearly scored again. However, his shot from outside the box, aimed at the corner of the post, was saved by Brad Guzan for a corner. Messi was denied again in the 58th minute. A minute later, he created a 'goal-scoring' opportunity for a teammate, but Guzan once again saved Atlanta.
Inter Miami secured the decisive goal five minutes before the final whistle. Fafa Picault scored from Jordi Alba's assist.
