ATLANTA – In a rematch of last season’s playoff shocker, Atlanta United and Inter Miami delivered another entertaining battle on Sunday Night Soccer. However, this time, it was Inter Miami who walked away victorious with a 2-1 win at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, thanks to a late header from Fafà Picault in the 89th minute.
How It Happened
🔴 Atlanta United Strikes First (11′)
Atlanta got off to a dream start in the 11th minute. Brooks Lennon, making his first appearance of the season, played a beautiful ball into the box after a pass from Miguel Almirón. Emmanuel Latte Lath rose above the defense and powered home a header—his third goal of the season—to put the 5-Stripes ahead 1-0.
The assist was a historic one for Lennon, marking his 39th career assist with Atlanta United, tying Julian Gressel for the most in club history.
⚫ Miami Responds Through Messi (20′)
Just nine minutes later, Lionel Messi took advantage of a defensive lapse from Atlanta, winning possession deep in United’s defensive third. The Argentine star weaved past Derrick Williams and Brad Guzan before calmly chipping the ball into the net, leveling the score 1-1.
💥 Near Misses for Atlanta
- 19′ – Lennon nearly recorded his record-breaking assist moments after Latte Lath’s goal, delivering a near-identical cross for the striker. However, Latte Lath was ruled offside.
- 54′ – Atlanta had a golden chance when the ball bounced into Latte Lath’s path in the box, but the congested area prevented a clean shot.
- 55′ – Tristan Muyumba unleashed a 30-yard rocket that rattled the crossbar, coming inches from a highlight-reel goal.
🧱 Guzan Denies Messi
Atlanta’s veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan made several key stops, including two crucial saves on Messi in the 55th and 65th minutes to keep the match level.
⚫ Miami Wins It Late (89′)
With time winding down, Jordi Alba’s short corner found Picault, whose long looping header curled into the far post, sealing the 2-1 victory for Miami.
What They Said – Ronny Deila:
“We played against a team that hasn’t lost this year and had the most points last year. There’s not a frightening difference between us, and that’s a good thing. But we gave them too many easy chances. Against a player like Messi, that will cost you.”
Standout Performances
🔴 Brooks Lennon: Marked his 200th MLS start and tied Atlanta’s all-time assist record. His return gave Atlanta strength in both defense and attack.
🔴 Emmanuel Latte Lath: Scored his third goal of the season, proving to be Atlanta’s most dangerous threat.
🔴 Brad Guzan: Despite conceding twice, his six saves kept Atlanta in the match, including two spectacular denials of Messi.
Up Next
Atlanta United heads on the road to face FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on Saturday, March 22. The FIFA international break follows, with multiple 5-Stripes expected to receive national team call-ups.
