Atlanta, Oct 18 (V7N)- Lionel Messi scored twice in four minutes as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer (MLS) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday.
Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez also played a key role in the win, providing assists for two goals as Inter Miami dominated the second half.
Inter Miami took the lead late in the first half when German Berterame found the net following an excellent assist from Suarez, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage at the break.
Messi then took control of the match after the restart. In the 56th minute, the Argentine superstar doubled Miami's lead with a composed finish after receiving an extended pass from Suarez.
Just four minutes later, Messi struck again, converting an assist from Berterame to make it 3-0 and put the match beyond Atlanta's reach.
Russian midfielder Aleksei Miranchuk played the full 90 minutes for Atlanta United but was unable to prevent his team's defeat.
Fafa Picault scored a late consolation goal for the hosts in the 89th minute, reducing the deficit to 3-1.
The victory strengthened Inter Miami's position as the team continued its MLS campaign, with Messi once again proving decisive in front of goal.
Atlanta United are scheduled to host Chicago Fire on October 25, while Inter Miami will face the New York Red Bulls on the same day.
END/SMA/AJ
