On Sunday evening, March 16, 2025, Inter Miami CF faced off against Atlanta United at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marking their first matchup since the dramatic upset last season when Atlanta eliminated Miami from the playoffs. Returning to the starting XI after injury, Lionel Messi took center stage, showcasing his legendary prowess as Miami triumphed over Atlanta with a final score of 2-1, elevenching them to the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
The evening started well for Atlanta, who opened the scoring just 11 minutes in. Emmanuel Latte Lath, Atlanta's new star and record signing valued at $22 million, delivered with a beautiful header from close range, expertly assisted by Brooks Lennon and Miguel Almirón. This was Latte Lath's third goal of the season, highlighting his growing impact on the team. With the home crowd of 42,844 roaring their approval, it seemed Atlanta was on course for victory.
Moments later, Inter Miami turned the tide, equalizing through none other than the iconic Lionel Messi. The Argentine took advantage of a defensive blunder by Atlanta's Bartosz Slisz, intercepted the ball, and cut past defender Derrick Williams before chipping the ball over goalkeeper Brad Guzan. The stadium held its breath as Messi scored his first goal of the MLS season, delighting fans and proving once again why he is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
The match remained tense as both teams sought to gain the upper hand. Atlanta's goalkeeper Guzan put on a brave display, making numerous impressive saves, including notable stops against Messi and fellow Miami forward Tadeo Allende. Despite opportunities for both squads, the first half ended tied at 1-1.
The second half saw increased intensity, with Atlanta pressing hard for another goal. Substitutions were made on both sides as the clock ticked down. Manager Ronny Deila brought Xande Silva, Ajani Fortune, Luis Abram, and Matt Edwards onto the field, hoping to spark Atlanta’s offense. Despite their endeavors, they were met with fierce Miami defense, led by Rocco Ríos Novo, who kept the home side at bay.
Just when it seemed the match would culminate in a draw, Inter Miami seized the win with less than two minutes to spare. Fafà Picault, who had just returned from an injury, made his presence felt shortly after being substituted on, meeting Jordi Alba's well-placed corner kick with a powerful header. The stadium erupted as the ball found the back of the net, sealing the victory for Miami and leaving Atlanta heartbroken.
Commenting on the match, Atlanta United head coach Ronny Deila acknowledged the struggle against such high-quality opposition. "We played against the team who haven't lost this year and last year at the most point in the league, but we gave them too many easy chances," he said. "The first goal we lost the ball in a bad situation, and you give it to the best player in the world and you have a problem. It’s something we need to take out of the game.”
Fafa Picault, who secured the late winner, expressed his gratitude for the support from his teammates and coaching staff during his recovery. “The team and everyone on the medical staff supported me during this time, so it was easy to come back and I just wanted to repay them with something,” he remarked.
The results keep Inter Miami at the top of the Eastern Conference with 10 points and improves their combined record across all competitions to eight games without loss. Meanwhile, Atlanta's record now stands at 1-2-1, having suffered their first home loss of the season.
The stadium was buzzing not only due to the match, but also from the attendance of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 trophy, which dazzled fans throughout the game. Former Argentine international Hernán Crespo, who was present alongside the trophy, remarked on Atlanta's significance as a host city for major football events.
Looking forward, Atlanta United faces FC Cincinnati on March 22, 2025, before returning home for another clash against NYCFC on March 29. The international break from March 17 to 25 is expected to see several Atlanta players called up to represent their respective national teams. Meanwhile, Inter Miami will next play at home against Philadelphia Union on March 29, aiming to continue their strong start to the season.