Inter Miami square off against Atlanta United in the Eastern Conference Round One MLS Cup Playoffs in the first game of a best-of-three series. The Herons broke the MLS single-season points record after their 6–2 comeback win against New England Revolution on the final day of the regular season. Lionel Messi scored his first MLS hat trick as Miami reached 74 points after already clinching the Supporters' Shield.
Atlanta, on the other hand, barely scraped by in the Eastern Conference Wild Card match to deny CF Montréal a comeback win at home. Atlanta was up 2–0 in the first half but the Canadian outfit leveled the score through a Josef Martínez penalty kick near stoppage time. Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan came up huge to save a penalty during the shootout to propel the Five Stripes to the next round.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United in the playoffs.
Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United: A Look at the Two Teams
Inter Miami
Miami's impressive regular season performance was built on their ability to overcome challenges and secure crucial wins, culminating in the historic Supporters' Shield victory. With the MLS Cup Playoffs commencing, the Herons are eager to prove their dominance and solidify their legacy.
Atlanta United
Atlanta United, on the other hand, faced a more challenging path to the playoffs, requiring a dramatic penalty shootout victory over CF Montréal in the Wild Card match. Despite the late-season surge and the crucial penalty save by Brad Guzan, they are the clear underdogs in this series, facing the top team in the Eastern Conference.
Key Matchups
The game will feature some interesting matchups that could influence the outcome of the series:
Lionel Messi vs. Atlanta's Defense
Messi's presence on the field brings a level of excitement and anticipation that's unparalleled in MLS. The question is whether Atlanta's defense can contain the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has been in exceptional form, scoring six goals in just five days. The Five Stripes will need to be extremely organized and disciplined to keep Messi from dictating the match.
Atlanta's Attack vs. Inter Miami's Defense
Atlanta United has shown flashes of offensive brilliance in their recent matches, with Saba Lobjanidze emerging as a key goal scorer. Inter Miami's defense will need to be on high alert, especially with the 5-Stripes' counter-attacking threat.
The Importance of Home Advantage
The series starts with a home game for Inter Miami, and they are expected to take advantage of their home-field advantage. Fans are eager to witness the magic of Messi, and the atmosphere at Chase Stadium will be electric. This is a chance for Inter Miami to make a statement early in the playoffs.
The Series Format
This round of the MLS Cup Playoffs will be played as a Best-of-3 series, not a single elimination match. It’s the only round of the playoffs decided by a series. The schedule for the series is here:
Game 1: Friday, Oct. 25 - Inter Miami at Chase Stadium
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 2 - Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Game 3 (if necessary): Wednesday, Nov. 6 - Higher Seed at Home
Can Atlanta Pull off the Upset?
Atlanta United’s success will depend on their ability to play with intensity and capitalize on any opportunities they create. They’ll need to be disciplined defensively and maintain a focused and organized approach. If they can replicate their performance from their recent matches, they will have a chance to create a serious upset.
Looking Ahead
The stakes are high, and both teams are determined to advance to the next round. The series promises to be a thrilling and unpredictable battle, with both teams eager to make their mark in the playoffs.
The Importance of Winning the Supporters' Shield
Inter Miami’s success in the regular season has given them a significant advantage in the playoffs. They have the momentum and home-field advantage. With Messi leading the charge, they are poised to make a deep playoff run and potentially claim the MLS Cup. Atlanta United, on the other hand, is facing an uphill battle but they are looking to defy the odds and surprise the league.
Inter Miami’s Road to Success
Inter Miami's journey to the top of the MLS standings has been remarkable. The team has shown resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to winning. The arrival of Messi has undoubtedly elevated the team to new heights. Messi's influence has transcended the pitch, inspiring a new generation of soccer fans and putting Miami on the global map.
Atlanta United: Facing the Challenges Ahead
Atlanta United has faced adversity throughout the season. The departures of key players like Thiago Almada and Giorgos Giakoumakis, combined with the demanding schedule, have tested the team's resolve. Their Wild Card victory over CF Montreal showcased the resilience and determination of the Five Stripes. With a renewed sense of purpose, they are ready to take on the challenge presented by Inter Miami.
The Game is On
The stage is set for an epic clash. Inter Miami, with Messi leading the charge, will be the favorites. But Atlanta United is ready to prove they are a force to be reckoned with. The Eastern Conference Round One series promises to be an exciting chapter in the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.
