Atlanta Falls to Inter Miami in MLS Playoff Opener, Miranchuk Subbed Off at Halftime
Atlanta United's playoff hopes took a blow on Monday night as they fell 3-0 to Inter Miami CF in the first leg of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal matchup.
Josef Martinez's 21st-minute goal gave Atlanta an early lead, but Inter Miami rallied with three unanswered goals from Gonzalo Higuain, Bryce Duke, and Robert Taylor to take control of the tie.
Atlanta's struggles continued in the second half as they failed to generate any meaningful chances and were unable to find a way back into the game.The result leaves Atlanta with a daunting task in the second leg, which will be played on Sunday in Miami.
In order to advance, Atlanta will need to overturn a three-goal deficit, something they have never done in their MLS history.
Miranchuk's Performance
Atlanta designated player Aleksei Miranchuk had a disappointing performance in the first leg, failing to make much of an impact before being substituted off at halftime.
Miranchuk had a few bright moments in the first half, but he was largely ineffective and failed to create any clear-cut chances for his teammates.
Atlanta coach Gonzalo Pineda decided to replace Miranchuk with Thiago Almada at halftime, in a move that was met with some surprise.
Mirandchuk has been a key player for Atlanta this season, but he has struggled to find his best form since returning from injury.
The Russian international will need to improve his performance in the second leg if Atlanta are to have any chance of overturning the deficit.
Atlanta's Playoff Struggles
Atlanta's loss to Inter Miami continued their recent playoff struggles.
The Five Stripes have now lost their last four playoff games, dating back to the 2019 Eastern Conference Final.
Atlanta has not won a playoff game since they defeated the New York Red Bulls in the 2018 Eastern Conference Final.
The team will need to find a way to turn things around in the second leg if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Atlanta will need to be more clinical in front of goal and they will need to improve their defensive performance if they are to have any chance of advancing.
