Lionel Messi shines in first MLS Playoff game with Inter Miami

Lionel Messi made yet another historic debut as he appeared in his very first MLS playoff game, helping Inter Miami launch their campaign for the 2024 MLS title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. In front of an electrified crowd at Chase Stadium, Messi and his team took a crucial step toward championship glory. And though Messi didn’t score himself, his influence was undeniable, setting up Jordi Alba’s game-winning goal, while Luis Suárez and Alba made their marks on the scoreboard.

From the get-go, it was a match packed with excitement. Just two minutes in, Luis Suárez scored following a brilliant setup from Diego Gómez and Jordi Alba. Atlanta United fought back, however, with Saba Lobjanidze equalizing in the 39th minute after a pinpoint assist from Pedro Amador. But Inter Miami reclaimed control as Messi expertly assisted Alba’s shot from outside the area at the 60-minute mark, putting them one game away from advancing to the next playoff stage. The thrilling showdown left fans eagerly awaiting the November 2nd rematch in Atlanta, though Inter Miami faces a blow after Ian Fray was forced to exit with a right knee injury.

Yet Messi’s on-field magic was just part of the buzz. Fans across the U.S. are now faced with a tough choice on October 25: tune in to see Messi and Inter Miami in their high-stakes playoff match or watch the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers square off in Game 1 of the World Series. For decades, the Yankees symbolized American sports greatness, and Aaron Judge has become a household name. But Messi’s presence has set up an unexpected ratings duel, one that highlights a growing soccer fever across the nation.

The cultural shift was starkly reflected in a poll posted by journalist José Armando, asking fans to choose between Messi’s playoff clash and the baseball showdown. The results? A shocking 86.8% opted for Messi over Judge, leaving only 9.7% for Yankees-Dodgers and a scant 3.5% splitting attention between both games. Such numbers underscore a seismic change: Messi’s charisma has captured the hearts of fans across the U.S., even pulling viewers away from a marquee baseball event.

The shift isn’t just confined to Twitter polls. Messi’s influence has shaken up the sports world in America, where baseball has traditionally towered over MLS. Since Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami’s valuation has skyrocketed to $1 billion, while their social media following has soared from 1 million to over 17 million. Celebrities, A-listers, and fans of all ages flock to see him in action, while stadiums sell out like never before. MLS, once the underdog in American sports, is now gaining international attention, with Messi as its shining beacon.

In stark contrast, the Yankees a storied franchise with deep roots and a legendary fanbase—are facing an unexpected reality. Messi’s popularity isn’t just a temporary phenomenon; it represents a monumental cultural shift. His impact has placed MLS in the global spotlight, positioning soccer as a serious contender in the American sports landscape.

As fans cheer for Messi and Inter Miami on October 25, the showdown serves as a testament to the changing tide in American sports fandom. Lionel Messi’s ability to command more attention than a historic World Series matchup is proof that his star power knows no bounds and that America’s newfound soccer craze is here to stay.