If there was much optimism for Atlanta United going into this mid-October match against Inter Miami, it was simply because the Five Stripes have been a bogey team versus the Herons. And to give them some initial credit, Atlanta played a pretty solid first 45 minutes, but this was always going to be an uphill battle. These two squads always seem to meet each other once a year for a game that actually means something, and this particular one likely sealed Atlanta United’s playoff fate. A late Fafa Picault penalty was simply a consolation, as Lionel Messi and Co. hung three on the Five Stripes at home. Here are the final whistle thoughts live from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Finishing
I won’t spend a ton of time on this, but $30 million + worth of Designated Players simply have to be better. Sure, the first 45 minutes were slightly encouraging from an overall standpoint, but despite looking dangerous going forward, they never actually tested Dayne St. Clair. I hate the phrase “be more clinical” because I felt like Gonzalo Pineda (no offense, Gonzo) used it far too often to describe a floundering attack, but it’s the best way to explain this team’s biggest need. The fact that Matt Edwards rang one off the post and Fafa Picault had to draw, and subsequently score, a penalty for this team to not get blanked is yet another indictment on the DP’s, mostly Miguel Almiron and Alexey Miranchuk. The chances were there, but they simply failed to consistently put shots on target.
Fafa Picault
Speaking of Fafa, give this man some credit. He hasn’t hit the spotlight much this year, but when he steps on to the pitch, he’s a bundle of energy. It’s honestly refreshing to see how confident he feels taking on defenders, and I’d actually love to see him start as a winger or second forward. This year hasn’t been one of much optimism for the Five Stripes, but having a guy like Picault on the roster has been a small sprinkle of joy. His penalty tonight was well-drawn and well-taken, it’s just unfortunate it was so late in the match before he had an opportunity to make something happen.
As far as the match is concerned, there isn’t much else to say. The game played out about like everyone thought, as Lionel Messi got involved in the second half and the rest is history. I guess I’ll take some solace in getting the score prediction right. Yay.
Everyone says the DPs “have “ to be better. But they never are. So in reality, they don’t “have” to be better. They still get paid.