Martino Rejects Claims Messi Saving Efforts For Copa America Post Miami Defeat
Gerardo Martino declined to address claims that Lionel Messi was conserving energy for the Copa America after Inter Miami's 3-1 loss to Atlanta United. Despite scoring his 11th goal of the season, Messi could not prevent Miami's first defeat in 11 MLS matches at Chase Stadium.
Saba Lobjanidze scored twice for Atlanta, putting the 12th-place team in control. Although Messi reduced the deficit, Jamal Thiare's goal in the 73rd minute sealed the victory for Atlanta, ending their nine-game winless streak. Messi returned to the starting line-up after missing Miami's 2-1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps.
Martino was questioned about whether Messi's focus was on the upcoming Copa America, where Argentina will defend their title. "No, I will not speculate if Messi is saving himself for Copa America because [that question has] no validity," said Martino.
Performance Analysis
Discussing Miami's performance, Martino noted, "The first feeling is that we were missing one more gear compared to Atlanta, and that was evident in the first half and during the second half. It was a night where the team regressed compared to other games."
He added, "I think we were very well outmatched, and they beat us well. The conditions were favourable, much more for us than them. But their position on the table is deceiving, and they showed that."
Upcoming Challenges
Messi will soon join Argentina ahead of their Copa America title defence, which starts in a few weeks. The reigning world champions will aim for their third silverware in four years.
Inter Miami will look to bounce back from this defeat as they prepare for their next match on Saturday.
We go again on Saturday pic.twitter.com/sbladb0p9P
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) May 30, 2024
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