Atlanta United Falls 2-1 to Inter Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Atlanta United suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat against Inter Miami CF on Sunday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Despite taking an early lead through Latte Lath’s third goal of the season, Miami responded with a pair of goals to secure the win. The match also marked the season debut for Brooks Lennon, who returned from a shoulder injury and made his 200th career MLS regular season start. Lennon recorded an assist on Atlanta’s lone goal, tying him for first place in club history with 39 assists across all competitions.

Fast Start for Atlanta

Atlanta United started strong, breaking through in the 11th minute when Lennon and Latte Lath combined for the opening goal. The play began deep in Atlanta’s own half with Miguel Almirón lofting a ball down the right wing for Lennon. The right back controlled it, took a few touches, and delivered a precise cross to the back post, where Latte Lath rose above his defender and headed home to give Atlanta a 1-0 lead.

Lennon and Latte Lath nearly connected again in the 19th minute with a similar play, but Latte Lath’s finish was ruled offside.

Messi Strikes Back

Miami quickly responded, equalizing just a minute later through Lionel Messi. Atlanta attempted to play out of pressure near its own penalty area when Messi intercepted a pass, deked a defender, and chipped a clever finish past Brad Guzan to level the match at 1-1.

Chances on Both Ends

Atlanta United nearly regained the lead in the 54th minute when Almirón forced a turnover in Miami’s box. Alexey Miranchuk collected the loose ball and squared it to Latte Lath, but his shot lacked the necessary power to beat Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender.

Guzan was tested immediately in the 55th minute after Miami created a chance through Messi and Luis Suárez. Messi fired a shot on goal, but Guzan reacted quickly to palm it away.

In the 59th minute, Tristan Muyumba nearly put Atlanta ahead with a stunning strike from over 30 yards out, but his effort rattled off the crossbar. Guzan again denied Messi in the 65th minute, making a crucial kick save at the near post after Messi attempted a tight-angle shot following a tackle from Yannick Bright.

Late Heartbreak for Atlanta

Despite Atlanta’s resilience, Miami found a late winner in the 89th minute. A short corner from Benjamin Cremaschi found Jordi Alba on the left wing, and the Spaniard delivered a pinpoint cross to the far post. Substitute Fabrice Picault met it with a well-placed header that bounced off the post and past Guzan, sealing the 2-1 victory for Miami.

What’s Next?

Atlanta United (1-2-1, 4 points) will look to bounce back when it travels to face FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on Saturday, March 22. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. ET.