In a thrilling return to Major League Soccer (MLS), Lionel Messi scored a breathtaking equalizer for Inter Miami against Atlanta United.
Inter Miami faced Atlanta United in Matchday 4 of the 2025 MLS season, aiming to rise in the standings. Despite a challenging start, Messi delivered a moment of magic, leveling the score with a stunning finish.
Atlanta United started strong, showcasing greater intensity on their home turf. They opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Brooks Lennon provided a perfect cross to Emmanuel Latte Lath, who headed the ball past the keeper, giving Atlanta the lead. However, this advantage was short-lived.
Inter Miami responded just nine minutes later, thanks to Messi’s brilliance. After Atlanta’s attempt to build from the back during a counter-attack, Messi applied high pressure, dispossessing Bartosz Slisz. The Argentine maestro followed up with a dazzling dribble that left defender Derrick Williams on the ground before calmly chipping the ball over Brad Guzan, netting a stunning equalizer in the 20th minute.
Messi’s participation in the match was uncertain due to fatigue and muscle issues earlier in the season. Defying expectations, the Argentine forward started the game and quickly made an impact with a display of pure class.
Messi’s goal against Atlanta United marked his first strike of the 2025 MLS season. In the opener against New York City FC, he contributed two key assists but missed matches against Dynamo Houston and Charlotte. Now back in action, he has opened his league account while achieving his fourth goal of the season.
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