Messi, Luis Lead Inter Miami: Atlanta Player Ratings
Inter Miami CF continued their impressive run, securing a convincing 4-0 victory over Atlanta United on Saturday night at DRV PNK Stadium. The match showcased the electrifying combination of Lionel Messi and Josef Martinez, who combined for a goal and two assists, while Sergio Busquets continued to anchor the midfield with his trademark precision and composure.
Here's a closer look at the individual performances of both teams, with specific attention to key players:
Inter Miami Player Ratings
- Lionel Messi (9/10): The Argentine maestro was simply sensational. He orchestrated the attack with his pinpoint passing, intricate dribbling, and clinical finishing. Messi opened the scoring with a trademark free-kick, showcasing his remarkable technique. He also assisted on two goals, demonstrating his unmatched playmaking ability.
- Josef Martinez (8/10): The Venezuelan forward was a constant threat to the Atlanta defense. He scored a beautiful goal, expertly finishing a cross from Messi, and displayed his clinical finishing prowess throughout the match.
- Sergio Busquets (8/10): The Spanish veteran controlled the tempo of the game with his impeccable passing and defensive positioning. He intercepted passes with ease and provided crucial support to the defense.
- Robert Taylor (7/10): The Finnish winger was a constant menace down the right flank. He provided the assist for Martinez's goal and created several other scoring opportunities with his speed and agility.
- DeAndre Yedlin (7/10): The American right-back was solid defensively and provided offensive support down the flank. He delivered some dangerous crosses and played a key role in helping Inter Miami maintain their dominance.
Atlanta Player Ratings
- Brooks Lennon (5/10): The Atlanta winger struggled to create opportunities against Inter Miami's tight defense.
- Miles Robinson (5/10): The center-back had a difficult time containing Messi and Martinez, often finding himself out of position.
- Thiago Almada (5/10): The Argentine playmaker was unable to impact the game significantly, struggling to find space and create chances for his teammates.
Key Takeaways
- The arrival of Messi has transformed Inter Miami. His presence has unlocked the potential of the entire team, making them a formidable force in MLS.
- The partnership between Messi and Martinez is proving to be a lethal combination. Their understanding and chemistry are evident in their on-field performances.
- Inter Miami's defense has been impressive in recent matches. They have been organized and disciplined, limiting the opposition's scoring chances.
This victory further cemented Inter Miami's place as a serious contender for the MLS Cup. With Messi leading the charge, they have the potential to achieve great things this season.