Messi & Suarez Strike: Inter Miami’s Historic Comeback
In a stunning display of late-game brilliance, Inter Miami CF turned a tense contest into a historic victory, thanks to the magic of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. The two South American legends combined to score two goals in just 106 seconds, the fastest two goals in club history, propelling Inter Miami to a 2-0 win over Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday night.
- Score: Inter Miami 2-0 Atlanta United
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- Date: April 22, 2026
- Key Moment: Two goals in 106 seconds (82nd and 84th minutes)
Match Summary: Messi Breaks the Deadlock
For 81 minutes, Atlanta United’s defense held firm against an Inter Miami side that dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge. The breakthrough finally came in the 82nd minute. Messi, receiving a short corner from Telasco Segovia, curled a sublime left-footed shot into the upper-right corner of the goal, leaving Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan with no chance. The strike was Messi’s 12th goal of the MLS season and showcased his trademark precision from outside the box.
Just 106 seconds later, Suarez doubled the lead. The Uruguayan striker latched onto a through ball from Sergio Busquets, rounded Guzan, and slotted home into an empty net. The two goals deflated an Atlanta United side that had remained competitive throughout the match, and Inter Miami cruised to their eighth consecutive unbeaten league game.
Key Player Stats
| Player | Goals | Assists | Shots on Target | Pass Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 1 | 0 | 3 | 91% |
| Luis Suarez | 1 | 0 | 2 | 85% |
| Sergio Busquets | 0 | 1 | 0 | 94% |
| Telasco Segovia | 0 | 1 | 1 | 88% |
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
With this victory, Inter Miami climbs to second place in the Eastern Conference standings, just three points behind leaders FC Cincinnati. Their unbeaten run now stands at eight regular-season matches, a club record. Next up, they host the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, April 26, at Chase Stadium. A win could see them top the conference for the first time this season. Meanwhile, Atlanta United will look to bounce back when they travel to face Toronto FC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Lionel Messi scored for Inter Miami in 2026?
As of April 23, 2026, Messi has scored 12 goals in MLS play this season, along with 8 assists in 14 appearances.
What is the fastest two goals in Inter Miami history?
The fastest two goals in Inter Miami history were scored by Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez on April 22, 2026, just 106 seconds apart against Atlanta United.
How long is Inter Miami’s unbeaten streak?
Inter Miami’s unbeaten streak in regular-season matches stands at eight games, a club record, after the win over Atlanta United.
What is Luis Suarez’s goal tally for Inter Miami in 2026?
Luis Suarez has scored 9 goals in MLS this season, including the decisive second goal against Atlanta United.
Who assisted Messi’s goal against Atlanta United?
Telasco Segovia provided the assist for Messi’s goal, taking a short corner before passing to the Argentine.
