MESSI Magic: Inter Miami Thrashes Atlanta United 4-0 in Jordi Alba's Emotional Farewell at Chase Stadium
Lionel Messi scored 2 goals & assisted Alba's goal as Inter Miami won 4-0 vs. Atlanta United in the last MLS game at Chase Stadium, honoring Jordi Alba's retirement.
Messi, Alba Dazzle as Inter Miami Wins Final Chase Stadium Game
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Inter Miami CF delivered a sensational 4-0 victory over Atlanta United FC on Saturday night at Chase Stadium, powered by a masterclass from Lionel Messi. The club captain, briefly released from international duty with the Argentina national team, stepped onto the pitch to ensure the Herons clinched a crucial three points and secured home-field advantage in the first round of the MLS playoffs.
This emphatic win served as the final regular-season Major League Soccer match played at Chase Stadium, the team's home before their planned move to Miami Freedom Park in 2026. The atmosphere was electric, fitting for an occasion that also celebrated the illustrious career of a retiring legend.
Messi's Golden Boot Surge
Despite the controversy over his release from Argentina's October FIFA window friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Messi's availability was a straightforward decision after speaking with Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni. "I spoke with Leo about letting him play today; there's not much more to it," Mascherano stated. The decision immediately paid off.
Messi wasted no time in making his mark, curling a spectacular shot into the top-left corner for his first goal of the night, taking his tally to 25 for the season. He wasn't done there; in the dying minutes of the game, Messi added his second, finishing off a brilliant pass to put him on a league-leading 26 goals. This brace extends his lead in the race for the MLS Golden Boot, placing him two goals ahead of LAFC striker Denis Bouanga with just one match left in the regular season.
Emotional Farewell for Jordi Alba
The night held extra significance as it marked the final regular-season home appearance for defender Jordi Alba, who announced his retirement from football at the end of the 2025 MLS campaign. The longtime Barcelona teammate of Messi received a special tribute from Inter Miami after the final whistle, reflecting on his storied career.
The two legends shared a final memorable moment on the Chase Stadium pitch when Messi set up Alba for the second goal of the game. Alba looped a shot expertly over Atlanta goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert. Later, Alba returned the favor, assisting Messi's final goal of the night.
"I think I've had a very good career," Alba said following the tribute. "Now, to have the last game against Nashville, then the playoffs, and hopefully I can win them, and then I can rest."
Suárez Adds to Dominance
The scoring spree continued with another former Barcelona star, Luis Suárez, getting in on the action. The Uruguayan striker volleyed in Miami's third goal of the night in the 61st minute with an exquisite right-footed strike from the top of the penalty area, completing the rout against Atlanta United.
The dominant 4-0 victory leaves Inter Miami tied on points in second place with FC Cincinnati going into the final matchday of the regular season next Saturday. The team is now focused on its away fixture against Nashville, hoping to secure the highest possible seed for the postseason. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Union have already locked up first place and the Supporters' Shield for the most regular-season points.