Jakarta, ThedailyID — Lionel Messi once again played a key role for Inter Miami as they drew 2-2 with Atlanta in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Saturday (05/09/2026) night, or Sunday (06/09) morning WIB.
Inter Miami dominated the match at Nu Stadium. However, a thunderstorm forced officials to delay the game before kickoff due to safety protocols.
The match finally got underway after the weather cleared. For the first 30 minutes, neither side managed to score. Inter Miami controlled possession, but Atlanta kept its defense compact.
Inter Miami finally broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. Messi delivered a corner, and Casemiro headed the ball into the net with precision. The goal marked Casemiro’s first for Inter Miami.
However, Atlanta quickly responded. Just three minutes later, former Newcastle United player Miguel Almiron found the equalizer.
Inter Miami regained the lead before halftime. Messi created the move from the left side before Luis Suarez broke into the box and calmly finished the chance.
Atlanta refused to give up. In the 87th minute, Breel Embolo scored the equalizer and denied Inter Miami a victory at home.
As a result, Inter Miami remained second in the MLS 2025/2026 standings with 43 points from 23 matches.
The match also marked Messi’s first appearance for Inter Miami since he retired from international football.
