Inter Miami FC is gearing up to face Atlanta United FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium this Sunday, March 16, 2025, with kick-off set for 7 p.m. ET. The match is expected to be intense, with both clubs hoping for significant wins to bolster their standings early in the Major League Soccer season.
Inter Miami, currently third in the Eastern Conference with seven points, aims to build on their recent momentum, coming off a solid 2-0 victory against Cavalier SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup on March 13. Lionel Messi played a pivotal role, scoring at the showdown, marking his successful return from muscle fatigue after missing several games.
Messi's involvement adds excitement, as the Argentine superstar has already made significant contributions to Inter Miami since his arrival. Over his last five matches, Messi has found the back of the net three times and provided two assists. During his tenure at the club, he has scored 37 goals across 43 games, and this season alone, he has three goals from just four matches.
To support him, Inter Miami also features veteran forward Luis Suarez. Suarez has made quite the impression this season, with one goal and four assists to his name across three appearances. The combination of his skills and Messi's talent makes Inter Miami's attack formidable. Adding to the team's depth, Suarez showcased exceptional performance against Cavalier, netting two goals across the two-game series.
Conversely, Atlanta United, who struggled last season with a 10-10-14 record, is seeking to find their footing under new head coach Ronny Deila. The team recently held New York Red Bulls to a goalless draw, hoping to turn the tide against Miami. Emmanuel Latte Lath, Atlanta's leading scorer with two goals this season, remains uncertain due to concussion protocol, but signs point to his readiness for this impending clash.
Both teams’ rivalry gained notoriety during their tense encounter last year during the MLS Cup Playoffs, creating another layer of anticipation for this matchup. Last season, Atlanta was resilient against Miami, but it’s fair to wonder whether their luck can hold now against Messi and his star-studded teammates.
Atlanta's lineup also boasts promising talents, such as midfielder Saba Lobjanidze, who is one of the team's notable contributors. His prior season was impressive, finishing with ten goals and seven assists. While this season has yet to meet those heights, he remains constructive and could help change the game if he finds his form.
Fans and analysts are taking sides as they prepare for this showdown. Early odds put Inter Miami as the underdog at +160 against Atlanta’s +135 on the money line. A draw is priced at +270, and the over/under for total goals scored stands at 3.5. Messi’s individual odds to score or assist float around -150, showcasing the expectations surrounding his performance.
For those interested in watching, the match will be available through the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, with streaming options accessible worldwide. With all players healthy, expect another riveting match as teams seek their respective paths to victory.
Inter Miami not only brings veteran experience but heightened expectations fueled by star power. Regardless of the competition, they aim to establish themselves at the forefront of MLS.
With the stakes riding high, both teams will need to capitalize on their respective strengths. Inter Miami’s collective experience, primarily driven by the pairing of Messi and Suarez, could be the edge they need heading to Atlanta, where the United will strive to redeem themselves.
The upcoming match is not just about three points but also about honor, as both franchises battle it out on the pitch to prove their strengths. This face-off promises to entertain fans, leaving everyone tuned to see how it unravels.
Anticipation brews as March 16 draws closer, forging what some hope will become another classic encounter between two fierce rivals.