Messi’s MLS Cup playoff aspirations shattered: WHY?

Lionel Messi has dreamed of winning the MLS Cup since joining Inter Miami in 2023, but his club was eliminated in the first round on Saturday. David Beckham’s football club, who lost 3-2 at home to Atlanta United, was eliminated from the playoffs in the first round.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and MLS Cup favorites Inter Miami lost twice in the best-of-three series after winning the regular season with a record points total. Inter Miami’s ‘Supporters’ Shield’ win was insignificant because a ninth-place Eastern Conference team defeated them.

The injured Sergio Busquets on the bench left Miami without midfield rhythm, and Messi and his former Barcelona striking partners Luis Suarez struggled to create chances from minimal service. After the final whistle, Guzan and his Atlanta teammates celebrated, ending Miami’s season, which many expected to end with an MLS Cup triumph. Chase Stadium was silent.

Miami head coach Gerardo Martino, who won MLS Cup with Atlanta in 2018, tried to be brave despite the loss.

“This season has good and poor. The club, not just the team, has improved since November. The Argentine admitted they fell short of playoff aspirations.

Atlanta will play Orlando in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, while New York Red Bulls and NYC will play in the other semi.

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