Saba Lobjanidze Brace Powers Atlanta United Past Lionel Messi and Inter Miami

Atlanta United Triumphs 3-1 at Fort Lauderdale

Lobjanidze Scores Twice as Messi's Return to MLS Ends in Defeat

In a pulsating encounter at Fort Lauderdale's Chase Stadium, Atlanta United emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Inter Miami, who welcomed back the legendary Lionel Messi. Saba Lobjanidze stole the show with two goals, propelling his team to a resounding triumph.

Lobjanidze opened the scoring in the 35th minute, latching onto a cross from Thiago Almada and firing a clinical shot past Inter Miami goalkeeper Clement Diop. The visitors doubled their lead just before halftime, as Luiz Araújo converted a penalty after Bryce Duke was fouled in the box.

Miami fought back in the second half, with Gonzalo Higuaín scoring a stunning goal to reduce the deficit. However, Lobjanidze's second goal of the night in the 78th minute extinguished any hopes of a Miami comeback.

The result marks a disappointing return for Messi, who made his highly anticipated debut for Inter Miami but failed to inspire his team to victory. Atlanta United, on the other hand, extended their unbeaten streak to three games and cemented their position as a contender in this season's MLS campaign.