Inter Miami Settle for 2-2 Draw Against Atlanta United as Messi Struggles in Cameo Appearance
Inter Miami saw a late lead slip away in a chaotic 2-2 draw against Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but remain strong contenders for the Supporters’ Shield. Despite a bright start, Miami couldn’t secure the win, as Atlanta found two crucial goals to cancel out the Herons’ efforts.
David Ruiz opened the scoring for Miami in the 29th minute, striking into the bottom corner after being left unmarked in the box. Miami held onto the 1-0 lead going into halftime, but Atlanta came back strong in the second half.
Saba Lobzhanidze equalized in the 56th minute with a deflected header that trickled through the legs of Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. The Herons quickly responded, though, as Leo Campana restored their lead just two minutes later. His free kick, aided by a deflection off Dax McCarthy, put Miami in a favorable position.
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez entered the game as substitutes, looking to extend the lead, but neither could make a decisive impact. Atlanta United’s new star signing, Aleksey Miranchuk, had other plans. He curled in a beautiful strike into the top corner, leveling the score in the 79th minute with his first MLS goal since joining the team this summer.
It was a well-deserved equalizer for Atlanta, who had created multiple chances throughout the game. Miami, while disappointed to drop points, remain in the hunt for the Supporters’ Shield as the season progresses.
