Inter Miami visited Atlanta United in Matchday 4 of the 2025 MLS season with hopes of climbing to the top of the standings. While they struggled to break the deadlock early on, Lionel Messi delivered a moment of magic to level the score with a stunning finish.
Atlanta United started on the front foot, showing greater intensity in their home ground. The hosts struck first in the 11th minute when Brooks Lennon delivered a pinpoint cross that found Emmanuel Latte Lath, who headed the ball past the keeper to give Atlanta the lead. However, the advantage didn’t last long.
Inter Miami responded just nine minutes later thanks to Messi’s brilliance. After Atlanta attempted to build from the back following a counter-attack, Messi applied high pressure, dispossessing Bartosz Slisz. The Argentine maestro then dazzled with a skillful dribble that left defender Derrick Williams on the ground before calmly chipping the ball over Brad Guzan to secure a stunning equalizer in the 20th minute.
Messi’s involvement in the match was uncertain due to fatigue and muscle issues he faced earlier in the season. Defying expectations, the Argentine forward started the game and quickly made his presence felt with a moment of pure class.
Messi’s goal against Atlanta United marked his first strike in the 2025 MLS season. In the opener against New York City FC, he provided two key assists but missed the matches against Dynamo Houston and Charlotte. Now back in action, he has opened his league account while reaching his fourth goal of the season.
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What’s next for Inter Miami?
Inter Miami’s clash with Atlanta United will be their final game before March’s FIFA international break, giving Lionel Messi and several teammates time to join their respective national teams. However, challenging fixtures await the Herons upon their return.
On March 29, Inter Miami will face Philadelphia Union, who currently sit second in the Eastern Conference with nine points from four games. Just days later, they will take on Los Angeles FC in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals on April 3. With such demanding fixtures ahead, ensuring Messi and company return fully fit will be crucial for the team’s ambitions.
