Silva scores in stoppage time, Atlanta rallies to beat Messi’s Miami 2-1 to even playoff series
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) dribbles the ball during the first half of an MLS soccer match against Atlanta United, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Jason Allen]
ATLANTA (AP) — Xande Silva scored with about a minute to go in stoppage time shortly after a goal by Lionel Messi was waved off by a clear offside, giving ninth-seeded Atlanta United a 2-1 victory over Inter Miami and evening the best-of-three MLS playoff series at one game apiece. Silva blasted a right-footed shot into the top left corner to beat goalkeeper Drake Callender in the 94th minute. Messi had plenty of good chances but only found the back of the net with the flag raised for offside. Atlanta United took off the other way for Silva’s game winner. United rallied from a 1-0 halftime deficit to force a decisive game next Saturday in South Florida.
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Atlanta United forward Xande Silva (16) celebrates his goal during stoppage time in the second half of an MLS soccer match against Inter Miami, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)
Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS/Jason Allen