Messi and Picault Lead Inter Miami to Comeback Win Over Atlanta United
ATLANTA – Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the MLS season, and Fafà Picault netted a late winner as Inter Miami secured a 2-1 victory over Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday night.
Picault, making just his second appearance of the season, found the net in the 89th minute with an assist from Jordi Alba, sealing the win for Miami (3-0-1). Alba’s delivery marked his second assist of the match.
Messi leveled the score in the 20th minute, marking his first goal in two starts this season.
Atlanta Strikes First, but Miami Responds
Brooks Lennon, making his 200th career start and first of the season, made an immediate impact. In the 11th minute, he delivered a pinpoint cross to Emmanuel Latte Lath, who headed the ball past former Atlanta goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo for his third goal in four career starts. Miguel Almirón also assisted on the goal, his second of the season and 30th of his career.
Lennon’s assist tied Julian Gressel’s club record of 39 career assists. The defender returned to action after missing time due to a shoulder injury suffered against Miami in last year’s playoffs, where Atlanta shocked the Supporters’ Shield winners by eliminating them in the opening round.
Latte Lath nearly doubled his tally in the 19th minute, but his goal was ruled offside. Moments later, Messi capitalized on a defensive turnover, weaving past defenders before slotting home the equalizer in the 20th minute.
Late Heroics from Picault
With the match appearing destined for a draw, Jordi Alba delivered a precise cross in the 89th minute, and Picault rose above his defender to head the ball past Brad Guzan, securing the victory for Miami.
Ríos Novo, making his first start for Miami, recorded three saves. The young goalkeeper made 15 starts for Atlanta last season as a rookie.
Guzan had six saves for Atlanta (1-2-1), including three stops against Messi.
What’s Next
Atlanta United travels to face FC Cincinnati on Saturday, while Inter Miami gets a break before hosting the Philadelphia Union on March 29.