An uncommon photo shows Messi having a lengthy private discussion with coach Tata Martino just prior to Inter Miami’s “final” game against Atlanta United at 8 a.m. on November 10 in an attempt to earn a spot in the MLS Cup play-off round semifinals.
After winning by the same score in the first match on October 26, Inter Miami lost to Atlanta United 1-2 in the second of the “three matches” in the first round of the MLS Cup play-off (American professional soccer tournament) on November 3, missing the opportunity to advance to the next round. Messi and his colleagues must now win the third game in order to advance.
“The 2024 season will formally end early for them if they fail. Messi and Inter Miami will have a failed season even though they won the MLS Supporters’ Shield with a record number of points if they are unable to win the MLS Cup, the Miami.
If Inter Miami and Atlanta United are level after ninety minutes of regular play in the forthcoming “final” game at Chase Stadium, a penalty shootout will be used to decide the victor without the need for two extra sessions.
Only knockout games from the semi-finals, regional finals, and the MLS Cup final (between the two Eastern and Western champions) are subject to extra sessions. If there is still a tie after two additional sessions, a penalty shootout will be played.
Messi and coach Tata Martino had a lengthy private discussion on the training field due to the importance of the game. This seldom ever occurs because the 37-year-old athlete hardly ever speaks with his coach just before a crucial game for his club or country.
Messi’s worries over Inter Miami’s condition just before their rematch with Atlanta United, however, are reasonable given that Busquets, a vital midfield player, might miss another game due to an injury and virus. Furthermore, defender David Martinez, midfielder Yannick Bright, and Diego Gomez are all unable to make a comeback.
The current Inter Miami team is still overly reliant on Messi, Suarez, and Jordi Alba, the three surviving star players. Federico Redondo, a midfielder, is also the most likely candidate to take Busquets’ place.
MLS, Apple TV, Adidas, and all of Inter Miami’s and Messi’s other sponsors are undoubtedly banking on David Beckham’s squad to make it to the knockout stages and contend for its first MLS Cup, according to the Miami Herald. But Atlanta United has shown itself. For the remainder of the 2024 season, Messi and Inter Miami’s hopes could be totally dashed by this squad.
Messi is the player most expected to step up and support the home team if Inter Miami still lacks Busquets. According to the Miami Herald, 21,550 tickets have already been sold out for the upcoming game, meaning Chase Stadium will be packed.
