Messi Makes Second-Half Appearance in Inter Miami’s 2-2 Draw with Atlanta United
Lionel Messi entered as a second-half substitute in Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against Atlanta United on Wednesday night.
With Inter Miami playing their second game in a packed week, Messi started on the bench as coach Gerardo Martino aimed to manage the star's minutes amid his recovery from injury. Martino had emphasized the need for caution, as the team faces a demanding schedule.
To the delight of the 67,795 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Messi came on in the 61st minute, replacing Julian Gressel. Just moments before, Leonardo Campana had restored Miami's lead with a deflected shot after Atlanta's Saba Lobjanidze equalized David Ruiz's opener.
Messi nearly extended Miami's lead with a saved shot, but a late equalizer from Atlanta's Aleksei Miranchuk ensured the game ended in a draw, halting Miami’s five-match MLS winning streak.
"Messi always plays well, and tonight was no different," said Miami assistant coach Javier Morales. "In the 30 minutes he played, he was active, had chances, and contributed positively to the team."
Martino made several rotations for the match, with fellow stars Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba also starting on the bench, later joining Messi in the second half.
"We have three games this week and some suspensions, so Tata and the coaching staff decided this lineup was best for facing Atlanta. I think it was a good call, as we nearly came away with the win," Morales added.
Inter Miami, boasting the best record in MLS, is still vying for the Supporters' Shield and home-field advantage in the playoffs.
The 37-year-old Messi had returned to action last Saturday, after an extended absence, with a standout performance that included two goals and an assist in a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.
Messi didn’t play when Inter Miami last visited Atlanta, disappointing a crowd of 71,635. He had been sidelined since June 1 due to national team duties and a right ankle injury sustained during a 1-0 win over Colombia in the Copa América final.
Despite playing only 14 matches, Messi has registered 14 goals and 14 assists in league play.
Inter Miami's next game is against New York City FC on Saturday.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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