Lionel Messi and Inter Miami kick off MLS Playoffs with crucial victory

Inter Miami began their 2024 MLS Playoffs with a valuable 2-1 win over Atlanta United thanks to goals from Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba.

Inter Miami earned a valuable 2-1 win over Atlanta United on Friday night to kick off the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One Best-of-3 Series.

Goals from Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez and left-back Jordi Alba led Inter Miami to victory at Chase Stadium.

The hosts started the match on the front foot, finding an early opener through Suarez in the second minute.

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Gómez and Alba combined on the left flank before the Paraguayan midfielder set up Suárez inside the box, who struck with a first-time right-footed finish to the near post to give the hosts the lead and notch his 21st goal of the season.

Midfielder Saba Lobjanidze found the equalizer for Atlanta in the 39th minute to send both sides level heading into halftime.

.Alba restored Inter Miami’s lead 15 minutes into the second half with a brilliant goal on the hour mark.

The left-back received a ball from Lionel Messi before taking a touch and unleashing a powerful left-footed drive from long range to send the ball to the back of the net.

The second leg is scheduled to take place on November 3 in Atlanta as Messi and company look to progress quickly.