WATCH: Lionel Messi left puzzled after Brad Guzan makes incredible save during Inter Miami's win over Atlanta United
Lionel Messi was left surprised by goalkeeper Brad Guzan during their MLS Cup playoff clash. The 40-year-old shot-stopper pulled off an incredible save during Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Atlanta United on Friday, October 25.
The Herons kicked off the MLS playoffs with a hard-fought victory over Atlanta. Goals from Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba propelled the Florida-based club to their first-ever MLS playoff victory.
Suarez opened the scoring after just 90 seconds, latching onto a pass from Alba to put Inter Miami ahead. Atlanta equalized in the 39th minute through Saba Lobzhanidze, but a long-range stunner from Alba in the 60th minute turned out to be the match winner.
Messi failed to get on the scoresheet but provided the assist for Alba’s goal. The scoreline was not a reflection of the game which Inter Miami dominated. Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan came up big for his side making nine saves (via Sofascore) including a double save to deny Messi a playoff debut goal.
In the 28th minute, with the score at 1-0, a through ball from Suarez found Messi in the box. The Argentine perfectly controlled the ball before unleashing a left-footed strike to beat Guzan at his near post.
However, the ball struck the post and ricocheted to Marcelo Weigandt. The right-back released another shot, which Guzan parried away, leaving Messi puzzled.
Watch the video below:
Lionel Messi and Co. now have the lead in the best-of-three series. They will next travel to Atlanta for game two on Saturday, November 2.
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez named in MLS MVP award shortlist
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have been named in a five-man shortlist for the MLS MVP award. Both players played a huge role as Inter Miami emerged as the best team in the MLS and lifted the Supporters’ Shield.
Despite missing out on a good chunk of the season due to injuries, Messi still contributed 20 goals and 10 assists in 19 games during the MLS regular season. Suarez, on the other hand, had 20 goals and nine assists for the Herons during the regular season.
The other nominees are Christian Benteke (D.C. United), Cucho Hernandez (Columbus Crew), and Evander (Portland Timber).