Sergio Busquets will be absent from Saturday's crucial Inter Miami game against Atlanta United, leaving Lionel Messi without one of his key teammates for the upcoming playoff matchup. Busquets sustained an injury in Game 1 of the series and subsequently developed symptoms resembling pneumonia, forcing him to miss Game 2. Inter Miami now faces the challenge of securing a victory without Busquets to prolong their season and advance to the next round of the MLS Cup playoffs.
Inter Miami's coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, emphasized the high stakes of the remaining games, likening each match to a final. The team aims to progress through the playoffs, potentially playing four more games, including the conference semifinal, conference final, and the MLS Cup final, all of which could be hosted at home if they continue winning.
On the other side, Atlanta United has already triumphed in four elimination games this season, showcasing their resilience in must-win situations. The upcoming match against Inter Miami poses a significant challenge for both teams, with Atlanta aiming to continue their success against the top-seeded Inter Miami.
Despite Lionel Messi's relatively subdued performance in the series so far, Atlanta's interim coach, Rob Valentino, praised Messi's exceptional talent and impact on the game. Atlanta has effectively contained Messi in their previous encounters, limiting his goal-scoring opportunities and forcing him to adapt his approach on the field.
Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan acknowledged Messi's influence, highlighting the need for a flexible game plan to counter his presence effectively. With Messi's ability to command attention and create opportunities, Atlanta recognizes the importance of strategic adjustments to contain the prolific forward.
As the playoff matchup approaches, both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter that will determine their postseason fate. With Sergio Busquets sidelined and Lionel Messi seeking to make a decisive impact, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown between Inter Miami and Atlanta United.
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