LOS ANGELES:
Atlanta United snatched a dramatic last-gasp 2-1 playoff victory over Inter Miami on Saturday, jolting Lionel Messi’s hopes of leading the Florida club to MLS Cup glory.
A Thrilling Playoff Clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
The Dramatic Turnaround
In front of 68,455 passionate home fans at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta United pulled off a stunning victory that left the crowd in euphoria. Portuguese winger Xande Silva delivered a sensational winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time, leveling the best-of-three postseason series 1-1. This sets up a thrilling winner-takes-all Game Three in Miami next Saturday.
Inter Miami’s Early Advantage
Top seeds Miami, who secured a 2-1 victory in Game One last week, seemed poised to clinch the series after taking the lead in the 40th minute. The goal came from Paraguay international David Martinez, following a shocking blunder by former US goalkeeper Brad Guzan. Guzan mishandled a routine clearance from his penalty area, allowing Federico Redondo to intercept and set up Martinez for an easy finish into an empty net.
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Atlanta’s Resilient Comeback
Second-Half Onslaught
Atlanta United launched a relentless second-half offensive to keep their season alive. Their efforts were rewarded in the 58th minute when Derrick Williams powered in a header to equalize. The intensity of the match escalated as both teams created multiple scoring opportunities.
Near Misses and Last-Minute Heroics
Georgia international Saba Lobjanidze nearly scored for Atlanta in the 89th minute, only to see his shot tipped onto the woodwork by Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. The game seemed destined for a penalty shootout until Atlanta mounted a final, desperate attack. Aleksey Miranchuk found Silva, who made no mistake and buried the winner into the top corner, sealing a dramatic victory.
Coach Valentino’s Praise for His Team
“Words can’t describe it, they’re such a resilient group,” Atlanta coach Rob Valentino said post-match. “I said to the team before the game it’s everybody together, it’s not going to be one person. And then a substitute comes on and wins us the game.”
Implications for the Series
Game Three: The Decider
The victory forces a decisive Game Three, which will take place in Miami next Saturday. Both teams will be vying for a spot in the next round, with Miami looking to bounce back and Atlanta aiming to maintain their momentum.
Other MLS Playoff Action
In other MLS playoff action on Saturday, New York City FC defeated FC Cincinnati 3-1, pushing their first-round series to a decisive Game Three as well. The intensity of the playoffs continues to build, promising more thrilling matches ahead.
FAQs
What was the final score of the Atlanta United vs. Inter Miami match?
The final score was 2-1 in favor of Atlanta United, with a dramatic last-minute winner by Xande Silva.
When and where will Game Three between Atlanta United and Inter Miami take place?
Game Three will take place in Miami next Saturday, determining which team advances in the MLS playoffs.
Who scored the goals for Atlanta United and Inter Miami?
David Martinez scored for Inter Miami, while Derrick Williams and Xande Silva scored for Atlanta United.
What mistake did Brad Guzan make that led to Inter Miami’s goal?
Brad Guzan mishandled a routine clearance from his penalty area, allowing Federico Redondo to intercept and set up David Martinez for an easy finish.
How did Atlanta United manage to secure the victory?
Atlanta United launched a relentless second-half attack, equalized with a goal from Derrick Williams, and secured the win with a stoppage-time goal by Xande Silva.
