Miami opener victory: Messi despairs of Guzan – Jordi Alba’s hammer decides

Jordi Alba celebrates his game winning goal against Atlanta.”/>

Miami game winner: Jordi Alba celebrates his game winning goal against Atlanta.

IMAGO/Imagn Images

Eight-time world soccer player Lionel Messi almost won his first playoff game with Inter Miami. In the 2-1 win against Atlanta United, former stars Suarez and Jordi Alba got the goals, while Lobjanidze caused tension with the interim equaliser.

Inter lead after less than 90 seconds

The team from Florida got off to a dream start, as the home team took the lead after less than 90 seconds. Miami intercepted a reckless pass from Atlanta’s Slisz in the opponent’s penalty area and then combined with Jordi Alba and Diego Gomez to find Suarez, who beat Atlanta goalkeeper Guzan with a low shot from seven meters (2nd).

With the lead behind them, Messi & Co. played real power, but either the post was in the way twice or the Atlanta keeper spoiled more good chances with strong saves. The 40-year-old national goalkeeper from the USA saved two dangerous shots from Messi and kept his team in the game several times.

Lobjanidze takes advantage of Atlanta’s first chance – Jordi Alba, who won the game

It was more bitter for Miami that Atlanta equalized with their first chance to score. A beautiful pass weakened Inter’s defense in a good position and Lobjanidze took the opportunity with a dry left-footed shot into the far corner to equalize 1-1 – keeper Callender was powerless.

I tried a lot, but it remained without a goal: Lionel Messi
IMAGO / Icon Sportswire

After the break, the winner of the regular season record continued to press the accelerator – Gomez failed again in a one-on-one match against Guzan, but then came a big appearance Jordi Alba. After a short corner from Messi, the former Barca professional came free to shoot about 25 meters in front of the Atlanta goal and hit the ball into the net next to the right post. This time Guzan was beaten – it should have been the goal that won 2-1, because this time the goal remained for Messi thanks to Guzan, who spoiled two more good chances for the left-footed player .

After the narrow opening success, Miami still needs one more win to reach the Eastern Conference semifinals in a best-of-three series against Atlanta. The second game against the team from Georgia will take place on Sunday night. The winner of this duel will face the winner of the pair Orlando vs Charlotte FC.