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Inter Miami faced a crucial moment on Friday as it prepared for its win-or-go-home playoff match against Atlanta United. Initially, the team had prepared without Sergio Busquets, who had been ruled out for the decisive Game 3 of the best-of-three series. However, just hours later, the team received a pleasant surprise, Busquets was medically cleared to play and was officially listed for Saturday’s match.
Busquets' return a potential game-changer
Busquets, who was sidelined due to a midsection injury sustained in Game 1, had been battling pneumonia-like symptoms and was unable to play in Inter Miami’s 2-1 loss in Game 2. The surprise turn of events now gives Lionel Messi a key teammate in the lineup, should Busquets pass a final fitness test ahead of the game.
"We’re confident in the progression of his recovery, and are hopeful he’ll be available for Saturday’s match," the club announced in a statement.
Tata Martino's optimism amidst uncertainty
Inter Miami coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino had earlier expressed doubt over Busquets' participation in the match, stating he had no expectation the midfielder would be available. Martino had framed the upcoming match as a must-win, with the team needing to advance to the next round of the MLS Cup playoffs.
“At best, there are four finals left,” Martino said. “Each of the remaining games has the characteristics of a final game and we, with the expectations we have, are ready to face it in the best way.”
The possibility of Busquets returning only adds to the drama as the club hopes to extend its season. If Inter Miami defeats Atlanta, the team would play in a conference semifinal, followed by a potential conference final and an MLS Cup final four matches, all of which would be played at home.
Atlanta United's form and Messi's challenge
Atlanta, which defeated Inter Miami 2-1 in Game 2, is no stranger to high-stakes matches. The team has won four elimination games this season, including two key regular-season wins and two playoff victories.
While Inter Miami is banking on Messi to deliver in the clutch, Atlanta's defence has kept the Argentine superstar in check during this series. Messi has yet to score a goal and has only one assist in the two playoff games so far.
Atlanta interim coach Rob Valentino was quick to dismiss any criticism of Messi’s form, calling the player “fantastic” and emphasizing the challenge of facing him on the field.
“Messi is fantastic,” Valentino stated. “There is no slander on my end. He’s a fantastic player. Whether people say he’s produced, not produced, I don’t want to hear it because he’s fantastic.”
Atlanta’s success against Messi
Atlanta has proven to be a formidable opponent for Inter Miami, becoming the only MLS team to defeat Miami twice this season. The victories came with Messi in the lineup, with Atlanta’s defensive tactics seemingly effective in containing the superstar. In four meetings this year, Messi has scored just one goal on 19 shots, eight of which were on target.
“What he brings to a game, what he brings to a team, just him standing on the field requires your attention,” said Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan. “There’s very few times that Plan A works. It’s Plan B and Plan C and Plan D, and you have to adjust very quickly.”
As for Busquets, the final decision on his participation will be made on game day after the club’s medical staff assess his condition. With Inter Miami's playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the return of Busquets could provide a critical boost as the team seeks to stave off elimination.
