Atlanta, GA, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta United is preparing for a crucial match against Inter Miami amid significant roster challenges due to injuries and international call-ups. With eight players away on national duty, head coach Ronny Deila is forced to adjust his lineup, notably having Leo Afonso make his first start in a new defensive position. Meanwhile, Inter Miami, bolstered by Lionel Messi’s return, looks to continue their strong form as both teams vie for better positions in the Eastern Conference standings.
Atlanta – Atlanta United is preparing for a challenging match against Inter Miami with a significantly altered lineup due to multiple player absences from injuries and international duties. With eight players currently on national team call-ups during the October FIFA window, head coach Ronny Deila is compelled to field a lineup that diverges from the team’s usual formation as they head to Fort Lauderdale.
The match, which was initially not scheduled during the international break, was postponed from the summer when Inter Miami was engaged in the FIFA Club World Cup. This clash becomes crucial as both teams are vying for chequered positions in the Eastern Conference standings, cementing the importance of this encounter for Atlanta United.
Defensively, coach Deila emphasized the need for solid performances from his squad, which includes Pedro Amador, Stian Gregersen, and Juan Berrocal—who played in their recent match against LAFC. Due to the international absences of Enea Mihaj and Ronald Hernández, Dominik Chong-Qui will step in as a defender alongside his teammates. In a significant move, Leo Afonso is poised to make his first start against his former club, transitioning from a forward role to right-back, despite having played only six minutes during the entire Regular Season this year.
The added pressure for Atlanta United comes with the confirmed participation of Lionel Messi for Inter Miami. Messi’s influence is expected to challenge Atlanta’s midfield and defensive structures. The Argentinian superstar opted not to feature in a friendly against Venezuela to focus on securing playoff home-field advantage for Miami. Notably, he is also pursuing the Golden Boot title while currently leading Denis Bouanga of LAFC by two goals.
Atlanta’s midfield will see Tristan Muyumba and Steve Alzate taking charge, while Cooper Sanchez makes his first start after debuting with the first team last month. Emmanuel Latte Lath, following a few matches as a substitute, returns to the Starting XI alongside teammate Jamal Thiaré. Due to the numerous absences, the bench for this match will be lean, comprised mainly of players from Atlanta United 2 secured under Short-Term Agreements.
The anticipated bench will feature Brad Guzan, Josh Cohen, Sal Mazzaferro, Rodrigo Neri, Cayman Togashi, Adyn Torres, and Patrick Weah. The strain of injuries and international call-ups has significantly restricted roster options for the Atlanta United side as they prepare for this important fixture.
In contrast to Atlanta United’s difficulties, Inter Miami showcased remarkable form in their last match, where Messi contributed significantly with two goals and an assist in a 4-0 victory against a competing side. Messi scored in the 39th minute to provide Miami with a 1-0 lead by halftime. Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez later contributed to the score tally, with Messi scoring his league-leading 26th goal in the 81st minute while also assisting Alba’s strike.
With Messi achieving 44 goal contributions this season, he is just behind Carlos Vela’s previous record of 49 contributions in 2019. Meanwhile, Inter Miami’s goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo recorded three saves, marking his third clean sheet of the season. Atlanta United’s own Jayden Hibbert performed admirably, saving six shots in his eighth start.
As close competitors in the Eastern Conference, both Inter Miami and FC Cincinnati have collected 62 points each, intensifying the competition for prominence as the Regular Season winds down. Inter Miami will conclude their season against Nashville SC, while Atlanta United gears up to face D.C. United.
FAQs
Why is Atlanta United missing several players in the upcoming match?
Atlanta United is set to play against Inter Miami with several players unavailable due to injuries and international duties, with eight players currently on their national teams during the October FIFA window.
Who will be filling in for Atlanta United’s absences?
Due to absences from Enea Mihaj and Ronald Hernández (both on international duty), Dominik Chong-Qui will fill in as a defender. Leo Afonso will also make his first start for Atlanta against his former club.
What impact does Lionel Messi have on the match?
Lionel Messi is confirmed to play for Inter Miami, increasing pressure on Atlanta’s midfield and backline. He is also in pursuit of the Golden Boot title, leading Denis Bouanga of LAFC by two goals.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Team Difficulty | Atlanta United is facing multiple absences due to injuries and international duties. |
| Key Players Missing | Enea Mihaj, Ronald Hernández, and eight other players. |
| New Additions | Dominik Chong-Qui fills in as a defender, and Leo Afonso makes his first start. |
| Messi’s Role | Confirmed to play, pursuing Golden Boot, provided a strong performance in recent match. |
| Current Standings | Inter Miami and FC Cincinnati both have 62 points, competing for a higher position. |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta United Official News
- Newsday Sports
- AS.com Live Updates
- Sports Illustrated Predictions
- MyKhel Live Streaming Info
- Wikipedia: Inter Miami CF
- Google Search: Atlanta United FC
- Google Scholar: Major League Soccer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Soccer
- Google News: Inter Miami vs Atlanta United
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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