Inter Miami will be eyeing a spot in the next round of MLS playoffs when they face Atlanta United this Saturday.
Inter Miami and Atlanta United face off in a high-stakes, winner-takes-all game three of their first-round MLS Cup playoff series at Chase Stadium on Saturday. After Atlanta’s comeback 2-1 win in game two, the series is tied, setting up a must-win encounter for both sides.
Inter Miami looked set to secure the series in game two, leading at halftime, but couldn’t hold onto their lead, allowing Atlanta to equalize the series. The loss snapped a 12-game unbeaten streak in league play and marked their first league defeat in 2024 after scoring the opening goal. While Miami remains winless in playoff games away from Fort Lauderdale, they return to Chase Stadium with confidence, where they are currently on a nine-match unbeaten run domestically, winning seven of those matches.
Historically, the Herons have yet to advance beyond the opening round of the MLS Cup playoffs, with their previous knockout fixture ending in a 3-2 loss to Columbus Crew in the Leagues Cup in August. Gerardo Martino’s side will be eager to avoid consecutive defeats, something they haven’t experienced against MLS opponents since October 2023.
Atlanta United kept their playoff hopes alive with a late winner in game two, marking interim manager Rob Valentino’s first postseason victory. Valentino has won four of his last five league matches in charge, showcasing his impact on the squad’s morale and performance. On Saturday, he has a chance to lead Atlanta past the opening playoff round for the first time since Frank de Boer did so in 2019.
However, Atlanta’s struggles on the road in the postseason are well-documented; they haven’t won a playoff game away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium since 2018, when they defeated New York City FC en route to their title.
The Five Stripes are undefeated in their last eight MLS games when scoring multiple goals and will need to find that offensive edge if they’re to make history by winning this crucial road game. The Hard Tackle delves into the potential elevens and tactics for this highly-anticipated clash.
Team News & Tactics
Inter Miami
Inter Miami will be without several key players for their crucial match against Atlanta United. Defender Ian Fray remains sidelined due to a meniscus injury, while Facundo Farias and Nicolas Freire are also unavailable as they recover from ACL issues.
Sergio Busquets, who missed the last game due to pneumonia, suffered a setback in training, making his participation doubtful. Leo Afonso is dealing with a sore groin, while both David Ruiz and Oscar Ustari are questionable due to hamstring strains.
In a probable 3-4-3 formation, Drake Callender is expected to start in goal. The backline will likely consist of Tomás Avilés as the right centre-back, Noah Allen in the central defensive role, and David Martinez on the left side of the three-man defence.
In midfield, Marcelo Weigandt is expected to occupy the right wing-back position, with Sergio Rojas and Santiago Redondo partnering in the centre, while Jordi Alba will operate as the left wing-back, adding width and experience.
The attacking trio will likely feature Lionel Messi on the right, Luis Suarez as the central striker, and Leonardo Gomez on the left wing, combining creativity, finishing ability, and skill to challenge Atlanta’s defence.
Probable Lineup (3-4-3): Callender; Aviles, Allen, Martinez; Weigandt, Rojas, Redondo, Alba; Messi, Suarez, Gomez
Atlanta United
Atlanta United will head into the deciding game against Inter Miami with some injury concerns. Stian Rode Gregersen was kept on the bench last weekend due to a mild hamstring strain, while Brooks Lennon is out with a dislocated shoulder. Edwin Mosquera is also doubtful after sustaining a knee injury, and backup goalkeeper Quentin Westberg remains unavailable due to a head injury.
In a probable 3-5-2 formation, Brad Guzan is expected to start as the goalkeeper. The three-man defence will likely feature Ronald Hernandez on the right, Derrick Williams in the centre, and Luis Abram on the left.
In midfield, Saba Lobzhanidze will play as the right wing-back, with Bartosz Slisz and Dax McCarty partnering in the central midfield roles. Tristan Muyumba will provide additional support in a more advanced midfield role, while Xande Silva, who scored the winner in the last game, could occupy the left wing-back position.
Up front, Aleksey Miranchuk and Jamal Thiare are expected to form the striking partnership, aiming to break down Miami’s defence and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Guzan; Hernandez, Williams, Abram; Lobzhanidze, Slisz, McCarty, Muyumba, Silva; Miranchuk, Thiare
Ways to Watch
Key Stats
- Inter Miami are unbeaten in their last nine domestic matches at Chase Stadium, winning seven of those encounters.
- Atlanta United have not won an away playoff match since 2018 when they defeated New York City FC at Yankee Stadium en route to their MLS Cup victory.
- Inter Miami have the league’s best defensive record at home over the last few months, conceding fewer goals than almost any other team.
- Atlanta United have been undefeated in their last eight MLS games when they score multiple goals.
Player to Watch
Lionel Messi
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has transformed the team’s offensive play with his exceptional vision, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess. Known for his ability to dictate the game’s tempo, Messi’s presence on the field instantly raises Miami’s potential to create chances and break down defences.
In this high-stakes match, Messi’s experience in knockout scenarios and his unparalleled playmaking skills will be vital. His ability to pick out perfectly timed passes, deliver dangerous free-kicks, and link up with fellow attackers like Luis Suarez provides Miami with a multifaceted threat. Additionally, Messi’s influence on the pitch extends beyond his technical ability; his leadership and composure in critical moments bring confidence to his teammates.
With Inter Miami aiming to secure a historic playoff advancement, Messi will likely be the focal point of their attack. If he can find space to operate and connect with Suarez and other attackers, Messi could be the difference-maker in pushing Miami through to the next round. Expect him to be heavily involved in Miami’s attempts to control possession, create scoring opportunities, and capitalize on Atlanta’s defensive weaknesses.
Prediction
Inter Miami 2-1 Atlanta United
Inter Miami’s strong home record and Atlanta United’s inconsistent road form make Miami slight favourites in this deciding game. However, Atlanta’s recent resilience and offensive firepower could keep things close. Miami’s home advantage and experience should see them narrowly edge Atlanta to advance in the playoffs.
