WATCH: Lionel Messi scores superb header as Inter Miami lose thriller to Atlanta United

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi was on the scoresheet with a fine header as his side fell to a defeat against Atlanta United on Saturday, November 9. The Herons lost 3-2 on home soil against their rivals, crashing out of the MLS playoffs in the first round.

Messi and his Inter Miami side were looking to bounce back from a defeat in Game Two at the Mercedes Benz Stadium as they looked to secure a place in the second round. Tata Martino's side struggled to find the required end product to pick up the win that would have sent them to the next round of the playoffs.

Inter Miami dominated the encounter, scoring first before Atlanta United responded with two goals in quick succession to go ahead in the first half. Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the playoffs with a deft header in the 65th minute. The diminutive Argentine directed his effort into the back of the net following a cross from Marcelo Weigandt to equalize for his side.

Inter Miami won Game One of the series on home soil before falling to a late defeat in Game Two away from home. The Herons, number one seed in the playoffs, suffered a second defeat of the postseason, while their opposition booked a meeting with Orlando City in the second round.

Atlanta United secured one of the biggest upsets in MLS history against their former manager, sending Lionel Messi and his illustrious teammates out of the competition. Atlanta United finished the regular season on just 40 points, 34 points behind Inter Miami, who set a new points record in the regular season.

Lionel Messi goal not enough as Inter Miami succumb to Atlanta United

Lionel Messi was on the scoresheet for Inter Miami as they crashed out of the MLS playoffs after a 3-2 home defeat to Atlanta United. The Herons lost the series 2-1 to suffer a major upset and enter into the off-season early.

Matias Rojas opened the scoring for Inter Miami after 17 minutes, firing home the rebound after a save from a Messi shot. Jamal Thiare leveled matters for Atlanta United two minutes later before scoring once more in the 21st minute to turn the game on its head.

Lionel Messi headed his side level in the 65th minute before Atlanta United scored a 76th minute winner through Polish midfielder Bartosz Slisz. Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan was impressive for his side, making seven saves to knock Inter Miami out.