The text discusses the recent performance of Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS), particularly focusing on their loss to Atlanta United and the absence of Lionel Messi from the match. Here’s the English translation:
“Inter Miami CF faced a tough challenge against Atlanta United, even before the match due to Lionel Messi’s absence. Despite winning their previous match, this time Inter Miami suffered a 5-2 defeat against Atlanta United. This loss has dealt a significant blow to Inter Miami’s hopes of making it to the playoffs. In the 12 matches since Messi joined the club two months ago, this was Inter Miami’s first loss.
Following this loss, they have secured 9 wins, 4 draws, and 15 losses in 27 matches, placing them 14th out of 15 teams with 25 points. They are now just above FC Toronto, who have 25 points as well. This loss has made their path to the playoffs even more challenging. D.C. United, who are in the 9th position, has 37 points. Miami now has 7 matches left, and collecting the necessary points to qualify for the playoffs will be quite difficult for them.
Previously, Miami coach Gerard Martino had hinted at waiting until the last moment to play Messi. However, due to Messi’s injuries, they had to field a squad without him. The match against Atlanta United, one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, was already challenging, even with Messi. Miami had hopes at the beginning of the match, with Lionel Campaña taking them ahead within 25 minutes. However, things took a turn for the worse as they conceded three goals before half-time.
Campaña managed to score one more goal from a penalty, raising hopes for a comeback. But Martino’s team couldn’t turn those hopes into reality. They conceded two more goals in the 76th and 89th minutes. After this loss and Messi’s injuries, there were questions about whether Messi would continue to play for Miami. Martino stated that there was no relationship between Messi’s absence and the loss, saying, ‘There is no connection between Messi not playing and the team’s performance. Both Messi and Álvaro are suffering from muscle injuries, and resting them was necessary.’
Martino also reassured that Messi and Álvaro would return to the field soon, saying, ‘They will return to training tomorrow. We will monitor their condition daily. There is no change in Messi’s training routine, and we have no worries.’
Regarding Messi’s willingness to play, Coach Martino said, ‘If he feels good and is confident, he will play. If not, we will wait a few more days.’
Despite Messi’s absence, this loss is a significant setback for Inter Miami. Coach Martino acknowledged, ‘This loss has been a big blow for us. Our chances have decreased, but it’s not over yet. We have been chasing the playoffs for a long time. We won’t give up now. But our focus is on September 27th (the U.S. Open Cup final).'”
Please note that this translation is a summary of the original text and may not capture all the nuances of the Bengali version.
