Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. Atlanta United: Messi, Suarez, and the Herons Shocked in MLS Playoff Elimination
Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. Atlanta United: Messi, Suarez, and the Herons Shocked in MLS Playoff Elimination
In what will likely be remembered as the most stunning upset in MLS history, Atlanta United eliminated Lionel Messi and Inter Miami from the 2024 MLS Playoffs with a 3-2 win in the decisive Game 3 of their Best-of-3 series. Despite finishing the regular season as the MLS champions and breaking records, Inter Miami were outclassed by a relentless Atlanta side, with Messi and his teammates unable to respond to a devastating counterattack in the final minutes.
Let’s break down the individual performances from Inter Miami’s star-studded squad:
Inter Miami Player Ratings
1. Drake Callender (GK) – 5/10
A rough night for Miami’s goalkeeper, who could not prevent the three goals from Atlanta. Callender was left exposed by his defense on all three occasions. His positioning was solid for most of the game, but his attempts to cut out crosses were not as sharp as usual. His lack of involvement in the game’s turning moments, especially during the counter-attack leading to Atlanta's winner, left him unable to make the crucial save when it mattered.
2. DeAndre Yedlin (RB) – 6/10
Yedlin’s speed was tested throughout the match, especially with Atlanta’s blistering counter-attacks. He was decent defensively but found himself on the back foot too often. In attack, his runs were sometimes limited due to Atlanta's high press, but he did manage to get a few good crosses in. Overall, not one of his best nights.
3. Tomas Aviles (CB) – 4/10
Aviles struggled in this playoff clash. The turning point came late in the match when he went down with an injury, leaving Miami’s defense vulnerable during Atlanta’s decisive goal. His positioning was often off, and he found it difficult to track Atlanta’s attackers, particularly during the first half when Thiare's brace gave Miami’s defense fits.
4. Kamal Miller (CB) – 5/10
Miller was also caught off guard by Atlanta’s speed and intensity. While he made a couple of important clearances, he was unable to prevent Thiare from scoring twice in quick succession. His partnership with Aviles lacked cohesion, and it showed as Atlanta took advantage of the Herons' defensive lapses.
5. Jordi Alba (LB) – 6/10
The veteran left-back was one of Miami’s more consistent defenders, but even he couldn’t stop Atlanta’s onslaught. His offensive contributions were minimal, as he had to spend much of the game focusing on defending against Atlanta’s dynamic wingers. He was solid in possession but lacked the necessary support from his midfield to make an impact going forward.
6. Sergio Busquets (CDM) – 5/10
Busquets showed flashes of his usual brilliance, but in a game of this magnitude, his influence was limited. While he did attempt to dictate the tempo, he was often bypassed by Atlanta’s direct attacking play. His defensive work was also questionable as Atlanta carved through Miami’s midfield with relative ease.
7. Matias Rojas (RM) – 7/10
Rojas was one of the brighter spots for Miami in an otherwise disappointing match. His composed finish gave Miami the lead early, and his ability to get into dangerous areas was evident. However, he couldn’t create enough chances in the second half to help turn the tide in Miami’s favor.
8. Diego Gomez (CM) – 6/10
Gomez was involved in the play for much of the game, contributing to some of Miami’s better offensive moments. His disallowed goal in the 27th minute was a frustrating moment for him, but he continued to work hard. However, he was unable to break through Atlanta’s defense, and his passing in the final third lacked the cutting edge that Miami needed.
9. Lionel Messi (CF) – 8/10
Messi delivered yet another magical moment, scoring an incredible header in the 65th minute to bring Miami level. His vision, skill, and ability to influence the game were on full display, but he couldn’t carry his team through to victory. It was a difficult night for the Argentine, who found himself isolated and unable to create the kind of spark that has made him a legend. Still, his goal was a reminder of why he’s one of the greatest ever.
10. Luis Suarez (CF) – 5/10
Suarez’s usual ruthlessness in front of goal was missing when Miami needed it most. He failed to convert the few chances that came his way and was often a step behind the game. His link-up play with Messi wasn’t sharp enough to break down Atlanta’s defense, and his frustration grew as the match went on.
11. Jordi Alba (LM) – 5/10
Like his defensive counterpart, Jordi Alba was on the back foot throughout much of the match. He was caught out defensively, and while he did attempt to push forward, his final ball into the box was lacking in quality. His pace couldn’t keep up with Atlanta’s fast counter-attacks, and it contributed to Miami’s downfall.
Manager: Gerardo "Tata" Martino – 4/10
It was a night to forget for Martino, whose tactical setup was unable to withstand Atlanta’s high press and counter-attacking brilliance. Despite having a squad full of superstars, his team failed to show the kind of resilience and composure needed in a playoff elimination game. His adjustments at halftime were too little too late, and his side lacked the sharpness to capitalize on the few moments when they looked dangerous.
Summary
It’s hard to overstate just how shocking this result is. Inter Miami, the runaway leaders in the regular season, with Messi, Suarez, and the other veteran stars in their lineup, were knocked out by an Atlanta United team that executed a near-perfect game plan. Messi's header provided a glimmer of hope, but Atlanta’s relentless attack and killer instinct ultimately sealed their fate.
As for Inter Miami, it’s a bitter and devastating end to what was supposed to be a dream season. For Messi, Suarez, and the rest of the squad, this will go down as one of the most disappointing chapters of their illustrious careers. As the Herons head into the offseason, they'll need to reassess what went wrong, and how they can rise again for next season’s campaign.
In the meantime, Atlanta United will take on Orlando City in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, looking to continue their improbable run.
Player of the Match: Jamal Thiare (Atlanta United) – With a brace and a tireless display, Thiare’s performance was the key to Atlanta’s historic upset.
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