Fafà Picault secured a dramatic late winner for Inter Miami CF, scoring in the 89th minute, while Lionel Messi netted his first goal of the MLS regular season in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Atlanta United FC on Sunday.
Miami, now with a 3-1-0 record, celebrated the win despite Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan making six crucial saves. Guzan, who previously played a key role in Atlanta’s MLS Cup playoff upset against Miami last season, couldn’t stop Messi and Picault from leading their team to victory.
Messi’s goal came in the 20th minute of his second regular-season appearance for Miami. Due to Concacaf Champions Cup commitments, Miami had already played eight matches this season.
Messi Returns to Starting Lineup After Injury
The World Cup champion was back in the starting lineup after missing three games due to muscle fatigue. He had returned as a substitute in Miami’s 2-0 win over Cavalier FC on Thursday night.
“Leo’s goal speaks for itself. He is the greatest player in football history—there’s nothing more to say,” said Miami manager Javier Mascherano. “He has the ability to score spectacular goals. We’re also thrilled for Fafà Picault, especially after his recent absence. This win is important for us.”
Mascherano also praised Messi’s impact, highlighting his humility, teamwork, and ability to step up in crucial moments.
Atlanta’s Early Lead and Missed Opportunities
Emmanuel Latte Lath put Atlanta (1-1-2) ahead in the 11th minute, scoring his third goal of the season with a powerful header. However, Atlanta has struggled offensively, with the rest of the team combining for just one goal. Their winless streak now extends to three matches since their season-opening victory against Montreal.
Latte Lath thought he had scored again shortly after the 15-minute mark, but the goal was ruled offside. Miami capitalized on their next attack.
Guzan initially rushed out to stop a cross from the right, but Messi took advantage of Bartosz Slisz’s defensive lapse, intercepting the ball as Atlanta tried to build from the back. Messi dribbled past Derrick Williams and chipped the ball over Guzan to score.
Picault’s Late Header Secures Miami’s Win
Both teams had several second-half chances, but it was Fafà Picault’s unexpected header that sealed the victory. Jordi Alba delivered a cross from a late short corner, finding Picault at the far post. Picault outmuscled Ajani Fortune and sent a header bouncing across goal, catching Guzan off guard before finding the net.
This was Picault’s first goal for Miami, having joined the team from Vancouver in the offseason. It also marked his first goal for his sixth MLS club.
Miguel Almirón created Atlanta’s opening goal by lofting a pass over the top to Brooks Lennon, who crossed it perfectly for Latte Lath to score.
Mascherano Praises MLS Growth
Following the match, Mascherano expressed admiration for MLS’s rising quality.
“I initially focused only on Inter Miami, like many Argentines, but I quickly realized I was missing out on other talented teams,” he said. “There are several well-organized teams with strong tactics. Some players in this league could easily compete in European football.”
With Messi back and Miami gaining momentum, the team looks poised for a strong MLS season.
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