Sports
Inter Miami Aims to Seal MLS Cup Playoff Progress Against Atlanta United
Inter Miami is on the cusp of making history as they prepare to face Atlanta United in the second leg of their MLS Cup playoff Round One matchup. Following a 2-1 victory in the first game, Inter Miami holds a crucial lead and needs just one more win to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals. The match is scheduled for Saturday, November 2, at 7 p.m. ET at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The first game saw Inter Miami prevail thanks to goals from Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba, with Alba’s late strike proving decisive. Despite Atlanta United pushing hard and drawing level at one point, Inter Miami’s resilience and quality ultimately secured the win. This victory marked the first time this year that Miami has topped Atlanta, having been pushed to the brink in their previous meetings.
Atlanta United faces significant challenges, particularly with injuries to key players. Edwin Mosquera is out for the rest of the playoffs due to knee surgery, while Brooks Lennon and Stian Gregersen are doubtful for the match after suffering a dislocated shoulder and a hamstring injury, respectively. These absences will test the depth and strategy of Atlanta United’s squad.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, is dealing with its own injuries but remains in good overall shape. Ian Fray suffered an MCL injury in the first game, which will keep him out for the rest of the season, but other key players are available. The team is predicted to start with a strong lineup featuring Drake Callender in goal, Jordi Alba at left back, and a midfield trio of Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, and Federico Redondo. Up front, the formidable duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez will look to continue their impressive form.
The match will be streamed exclusively on the MLS Season Pass from Apple TV, offering fans a comprehensive way to watch all MLS Cup playoff matches. New subscribers can sign up for the MLS Season Pass for $9.99, while existing Apple TV+ subscribers can access it for free.
Betting odds favor Inter Miami, with a predicted score of Atlanta United 0-1 Inter Miami. However, Atlanta United’s home advantage and the new playoff system, which guarantees them at least one home game, could make this a tightly contested match.
With the stakes high and both teams eager to advance, this matchup promises to be an intense and thrilling encounter, highlighting the best of MLS playoff action.