Atlanta United will look to climb above the playoff line in Major League Soccer when they host Inter Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday. After a 2-0 defeat to Nashville SC last weekend, the Five Stripes are currently two points below DC United in the Eastern Conference standings, although they have a game in hand.
On the other hand, Inter Miami continues to lead the Supporters’ Shield race, holding a seven-point advantage over the LA Galaxy following a remarkable 3-1 comeback win against Philadelphia Union on Saturday.
Atlanta United struggled against Nashville SC, conceding an early goal and finding it difficult to create quality chances despite five shots on target. Interim head coach Rob Valentino has faced challenges, with Atlanta’s recent form being inconsistent. They have failed to score in three of their last four matches across all competitions and have secured just one win during that stretch—a narrow 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC.
Atlanta United vs Inter Miami Tactics
Atlanta United
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Guzan; Lennon, Rode Gregersen, Abram, Amador; Slisz, McCarty; Lobzhanidze, Miranchuk, Mosquera; Rios
Inter Miami
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Callender; Weigandt, Kryvtsov, Fray, Alba; Gressel, Ruiz, Redondo; Messi, Suarez, Taylor
Key Stats
- Atlanta United have experienced six home defeats in the league this year, three more than their total from the entire 2023 MLS season.
- Inter Miami lead MLS with 65 goals this season and have been highly effective in attack, despite only being awarded one penalty throughout the campaign.
- In 2024, Inter Miami have shown impressive resilience, coming from behind to secure a result in 15 MLS matches after conceding the opening goal.
- Atlanta United have struggled offensively, failing to score in three of their last four matches across all competitions.
- Inter Miami have won five of their last six away matches in MLS, including all their away fixtures since a heavy 6-1 loss to FC Cincinnati in early July.
Player to Watch
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is undoubtedly the key player to watch in this matchup. After recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the Copa America final, Messi made an immediate impact by scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union.
His remarkable vision, creativity, and finishing prowess make him a constant threat in the final third. With 17 goals so far in the 2024 MLS season, Messi is in hot pursuit of the Golden Boot and will be central to Miami’s attack against Atlanta United. Given his knack for single-handedly altering the course of a game, Messi’s influence could be the decisive factor in this contest.
Prediction
Atlanta United 1-2 Inter Miami
While Atlanta United have performed strongly against Florida-based teams this season, their inconsistent home form could be their downfall against Inter Miami. Miami’s impressive attacking form and their ability to mount comebacks, coupled with their consistency on the road, make them slight favorites for this match. It’s expected to be a tightly contested affair, but Miami’s recent performances suggest they could edge out Atlanta for all three points.
How to Watch Atlanta United vs Inter Miami
Watch online via NaijaSport247 TV.
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