Inter Miami CF kicked off their journey in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Atlanta United on a buzzing Friday night at Chase Stadium. This match marked a significant milestone for the club, as it was their first home playoff fixture, illustrating the progress they have made since their inception. Goals from forward Luis Suárez and left back Jordi Alba propelled Inter Miami into the lead in the Best-of-3 Series of Round One, positioning them favorably for the upcoming games.
### Lineup Notes
As fans filled Chase Stadium with anticipation, head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino rolled out a formidable lineup designed to harness home advantage. Drake Callender was stationed in goal, backed by a solid defensive line comprising Marcelo Weigandt, Tomás Avilés, David Martínez, and the ever-reliable Jordi Alba. The midfield trio of Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, and Federico Redondo aimed to control the center of the pitch, providing essential support for a potent attacking front featuring captain Lionel Messi and Diego Gómez flanking the in-form Luis Suárez. This tactical setup was a blend of youthfulness and experience, setting the stage for an exciting playoff opener.
### Match Action
From the first whistle, Inter Miami displayed their intent, taking control early in the match and seizing the lead in just the second minute. A clever interplay on the left saw Gómez and Alba collaborate effectively, allowing Gómez to deliver a precise cross into the box. Suárez, demonstrating his clinical finishing ability, reacted swiftly, netting a right-footed shot to the near post. This early breakthrough marked Suárez’s 21st goal of the MLS season, showcasing why he has become a pivotal figure for the team. The assist not only highlighted Gómez’s contribution—his eighth of the season—but also celebrated Alba’s vision and playmaking, as it counted towards his impressive 15 assists this season.
However, Atlanta United would not go quietly. In a moment of resilience, Saba Lobjanidze equalized for Atlanta in the 39th minute, ensuring that the teams went into halftime level at 1-1. The equalizer put the pressure back on Inter Miami, challenging their resolve.
The second half witnessed the return of Inter Miami’s dominance, as they showcased their attacking prowess. In the 60th minute, Alba paid back the favor by hitting the back of the net himself. Receiving a well-placed pass from Messi, Alba launched a long-range left-footed strike that soared past the Atlanta goalkeeper, cementing his status not just as a defender but as an instrumental part of the attack. This remarkable goal was his fifth of the season, while Messi’s assist, his 17th in the league, underscored their potent partnership.
As the match progressed, Inter Miami maintained their pressure, demonstrating their attacking fluidity with a total of 22 shots, 11 of which tested the Atlanta goalkeeper. The woodwork even came into play, as two of their attempts rattled the frame, highlighting how close the scoreline could have been. Atlanta, meanwhile, managed only seven shots, underscoring the control Miami exhibited throughout the match.
### Post-Match Reaction
Reflecting on the game, head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino emphasized the team’s strong performance and control over the match. “It was a match where what I liked the most was the control we had on the field for almost the entirety of the game. We didn’t make many mistakes that would allow the opponent to break into space,” he noted. His satisfaction with the team’s discipline and patience was evident, and he acknowledged that the match could have resulted in a more significant victory, were it not for Atlanta’s goalkeeper Brad Guzan standing tall against several clear chances.
### Next Match
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will face Atlanta United again for the second match in this thrilling playoff series on November 2, at 7 p.m. ET, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This upcoming face-off promises to be another intense battle as both teams vie for supremacy in this pivotal playoff encounter.
### Stats
As fans eagerly await the next match, stats from the opening playoff game illustrate Inter Miami’s impressive performance: 22 total shots with 11 on target, versus Atlanta’s 7 total shots. This disparity in offensive output could be a telling factor in the series moving forward. With the stage set for a gripping continuation of the playoff saga, all eyes will be on Inter Miami as they seek to secure their place in the next round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.