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Lionel Messi's Inter Miami had to deal with an unexpected early playoff exit following an incredible MLS Cup season in which the club won the Supporters' Shield. Miami ended their season with two losses to Atlanta United in the Eastern Conference playoffs, despite going into the tournament as the title contenders. Following the Herons' shocking defeat to Atlanta United in the opening round of the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs, Lionel Messi took to social media, promising to “come back stronger next year.”
The Herons topped MLS with a record 74 points this season, and the Argentine striker, who scored and assisted in the best-of-three-game series, also praised the team's progress. Messi, in his Instagram post, wrote, "A season ended in which we continued to grow as a club and, although we achieved some goals, we wanted more. Thanks to all the people who joined and supported us. "Now, let's get ready to come back stronger next year," Messi captioned the post on his Instagram.
In his first full season with the Herons in 2024, Messi, 37, made 19 starts and finished with 20 goals and 11 assists. Last season, he made 14 appearances in all competitions and scored 11 goals.
Inter Miami end as No. 1 seed in Eastern Conference
The Herons secured the No.1 seed in the Eastern Conference after leading MLS with 22 victories and 79 goals throughout the regular season. In their playoff debut, they defeated Atlanta United 2-1. Their opponents from the first round recovered, winning 2-1 in Atlanta on November 2.
In Saturday's series finale in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, midfielder Matias Rojas gave the Herons a 1-0 lead in the 17th minute. Only a few minutes later, forward Jamal Thiare responded with two goals to put Atlanta United ahead 2-1 at the half-time mark. Messi tied the score in the 65th minute, but mid-fielder Bartosz Slisz gave the visitors the lead in the 76th.
What’s next for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami?
Officially, Inter Miami's MLS season is over, but Messi's schedule is packed. The Argentine sensation will soon play for his country in two crucial World Cup qualifying matches. Argentina will host Peru in Buenos Aires five days after playing Paraguay in Asuncion on November 14.
Inter Miami has no competitions left in 2024 after their playoffs run was cut short. In keeping with their 2023 plan, the team might try to play post-season friendly. Inter Miami will remain active in 2025 thanks to its involvement in international competitions.
