Atlanta United will host Inter Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday in a highly anticipated MLS clash. The Five Stripes aim to bounce back after consecutive goalless draws, while the Herons look to continue their impressive five-game winning streak across all competitions.
Ronny Deila’s side began the season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over CF Montreal but has struggled in front of goal in recent weeks. Star midfielder Thiago Almada and winger Saba Lobjanidze will be vital in breaking down Miami’s defense. Atlanta will also rely on veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who kept a clean sheet against the New York Red Bulls last weekend.
Inter Miami, under the guidance of Javier Mascherano, have been unstoppable, with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez leading the charge. The duo returned to the scoresheet in the midweek CONCACAF Champions Cup win over Cavalier, while Tadeo Allende scored the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory against Charlotte FC last weekend. Rocco Rios Novo will step in for suspended goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.
Atlanta’s home form has been solid, and they remain unbeaten against Miami in their last six MLS meetings at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, injuries to key players such as Brooks Lennon and record signing Emmanuel Latte Lath could hinder their attacking options. Midfielders Tristan Muyumba and Bartosz Slisz will be tasked with controlling the tempo in the center of the park.
On the other hand, Miami’s defensive unit, led by Sergi Busquets and Jordi Alba, has been resilient. The Herons have only lost twice on the road since the start of the 2024 season and are eager to secure back-to-back away wins for the first time in club history. With Messi fully fit, their attacking threat becomes even more dangerous.
Inter Miami’s only victory in Atlanta came in 2020 when they scored twice within the opening 11 minutes. Since then, the Five Stripes have dominated at home, including a 2-1 win in last year’s MLS Cup playoff series. However, Miami’s current form and depth in attack could make the difference this time around.
Key battles to watch will include Thiago Almada against Busquets in midfield and Suarez facing Atlanta’s defensive duo of Miles Robinson and Derrick Williams. Atlanta’s ability to press high and disrupt Miami’s build-up play will be crucial in stopping Messi and company from finding space in the final third.
With Atlanta struggling to find the net and Miami’s attack firing on all cylinders, the Herons are well-positioned to get their revenge for last year’s playoff elimination.
Prediction: Atlanta United 0-3 Inter Miami
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