Lionel Messi made a comeback on the field, looking refreshed and motivated. However, the majority of his Inter Miami colleagues seemed weary from the extended journey in Major League Soccer on Wednesday evening.
Messi found the back of the net in the 62nd minute to pull one back after being down 2-0, but unfortunately, Inter Miami still ended up losing 3-1 to Atlanta United at Chase Stadium. This defeat came just four days after the team, missing Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets, secured a 2-1 victory over Vancouver last weekend. Saba Lobjanidze scored twice in the 44th and 59th minutes, with Jamal Thiaré adding another goal in the 73rd minute to seal Atlanta’s fifth win of the season. This loss handed Inter Miami their fourth defeat of the season and brought an end to their 10-match unbeaten streak. However, on the bright side, Inter Miami still holds onto first place in the MLS Eastern Conference. FC Cincinnati is just one point behind after losing 2-0 at home to Nashville.
Messi, Suarez, and Busquets made their return to the field after an absence since May 18. They were given a 10-day break between matches to rest, recover, and avoid excessive travel. This break allowed them to recharge before facing two more games in the upcoming week. Inter Miami is set to take on St. Louis City on Saturday night, a team currently ranked 11th in the MLS Western Conference. There is uncertainty surrounding Messi’s participation in the match, as he is preparing to lead Argentina in the Copa America next month, following their victory in the 2022 World Cup. With the Copa America approaching, Messi would benefit from playing to stay in top form. This tournament could mark a significant milestone in his distinguished career, as he will turn 37 on June 24.
Messi looked in good shape despite a previous injury to his left leg from a match in Montreal. In the game against Atlanta, he almost scored with a header early on, but unfortunately the ball went over the net. Throughout the first half, Messi, Suarez, and Jordi Alba kept pushing on the offensive, but struggled to break through Atlanta’s strong defense.
As the first period was coming to a close, Inter Miami started to show signs of fatigue from their journey and the humid night conditions, allowing Lobjanidze to score just before the break. Messi’s goal brought new energy to Inter Miami and got the home crowd excited, but Thiaré’s goal ultimately sealed the deal for the team.
