Thu Sep 19 08:08:45 UTC 2024: ## Messi’s Magic Doesn’t Quite Click as Inter Miami Draw with Atlanta
**Atlanta, GA** – Lionel Messi made a late appearance for Inter Miami in their Wednesday night clash against Atlanta United, but the Argentine superstar couldn’t conjure the magic he displayed in his previous match. Despite coming close to scoring, Messi was unable to help his team to victory as they played out a 2-2 draw.
Messi, who had scored twice in Miami’s previous match, was held out of the starting lineup as coach Gerardo Martino opted to manage his workload. Miami took an early lead through a first-half goal from David Ruiz, but Atlanta leveled the score in the 56th minute. Leonardo Campana put Miami back in front before Aleksey Miranchuk’s spectacular strike in the 84th minute earned Atlanta a point.
Despite Messi’s impact on the game, it was Atlanta who ultimately capitalized on the energy boost his appearance generated. The draw leaves Inter Miami in pole position for the Supporters’ Shield, with a nine-point lead over the rest of the league with five games to go.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati secured a 2-1 victory over Minnesota, keeping the pressure on Miami in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite losing two points in Atlanta, Miami remain eight points clear of their rivals, putting them in a strong position to secure a playoff berth.
First Piper 