Thu Sep 19 08:08:07 UTC 2024: ## Messi Returns, But Inter Miami’s Winning Streak Ends in Atlanta Draw

Atlanta, GA – Lionel Messi made a second-half appearance for Inter Miami on Wednesday night, but the Herons’ five-game winning streak in Major League Soccer came to an end with a 2-2 draw against Atlanta United.

Coach Gerardo Martino opted to rest his star player, who is recovering from an injury, for the first half of the match, which was Inter Miami’s second of three games in a week. Messi entered the game in the 61st minute, replacing Julian Gressel, to the delight of the 67,795 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The Argentine superstar had a shot saved in a chance to extend Miami’s lead, but a spectacular late equalizer from Atlanta’s Aleksei Miranchuk secured a point for the home side.

“Messi always looks good, and tonight was no exception,” said Miami assistant coach Javier Morales. “He played almost 30 minutes, where he looked active. He had chances at goal, so like always his performance was positive for the team.”

Martino made several changes to his starting lineup, with Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba joining Messi on the bench. “We have three games this week and various players suspended, so for this game Tata Martino and the coaching staff thought this was the perfect team to face Atlanta,” Morales explained. “I thought it was a good decision, since we almost took home the three points.”

Despite the draw, Inter Miami remains atop the MLS standings and is in contention for the Supporters’ Shield and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Messi’s return to the lineup last Saturday was memorable, as he scored two goals and assisted on another in a 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union.

Inter Miami will next visit New York City FC on Saturday.

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