The rivalry between Atlanta United FC and Inter Miami CF is one of Major League Soccer’s most entertaining fixtures in recent years. Since Inter Miami joined the league in 2020, their encounters with Atlanta have often been high-scoring, tightly contested, and filled with star power — especially since Lionel Messi’s arrival in Florida.
While the two clubs do not share a long historical rivalry, the competitiveness and intensity of their meetings have quickly elevated the matchup into a fan favorite across the league.
Head-to-Head Overview
As of late 2025, Atlanta United and Inter Miami have faced each other 18 times across all competitions. The record between them is evenly balanced, with both sides securing 7 wins and 4 matches ending in draws. Atlanta has scored 28 goals compared to Inter Miami’s 27, showing just how closely matched these teams are statistically.
Across their meetings, nearly 90 percent of games have produced over 1.5 goals, and both sides have found the net in around three-quarters of their encounters. This reflects both clubs’ attacking philosophies and their tendency to play expansive football.
Early Atlanta United vs Inter Miami Timeline: 2020–2021
The early Atlanta United vs Inter Miami timeline started with their first meeting in 2020, which came during Inter Miami’s inaugural MLS season. Atlanta United, already one of the most established sides in the league following their 2018 championship win, had the early upper hand. They dominated possession in most of those first games but struggled to convert it into consistent victories.
The two teams traded wins through the 2020 and 2021 seasons, with Inter Miami gradually improving as their roster developed and chemistry built. Players like Gonzalo Higuaín and Lewis Morgan were key figures for Miami during those early encounters, while Josef Martínez led the line for Atlanta.
Messi Era Brings Star Power
The rivalry’s profile exploded in 2023 when Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami. His arrival brought global attention to the club and, by extension, to every fixture they played — including the clashes with Atlanta United.
Messi’s first appearance against Atlanta came in the Leagues Cup in July 2023, where he scored twice in a 4–0 Miami victory. The performance was widely seen as his breakout moment in MLS, with Inter Miami beginning their run to the Leagues Cup title.
In MLS regular-season play, however, Atlanta would later exact revenge. In September 2023, Atlanta United defeated Inter Miami 5–2 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Despite Messi being rested for that match, it was a statement win for the Georgia side. Thiago Almada starred for Atlanta, orchestrating a dominant display that reminded fans the rivalry was far from one-sided.
2024–2025: Balance Restored
Through the 2024 and 2025 seasons, the rivalry has remained one of fine margins. Both teams have secured important home wins, and the head-to-head tally has stayed remarkably even.
In March 2025, Inter Miami defeated Atlanta United 2–1 in Atlanta, with goals from Lionel Messi and Fafà Picault overturning an early strike from Emmanuel Latte Lath. The result underlined Miami’s growing composure on the road and their ability to come from behind in tough environments.
Later in the year, in October 2025, Inter Miami recorded a commanding 4–0 home victory over Atlanta. Messi was again the difference-maker, scoring twice and assisting another, while Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez added to the tally. The win ensured Miami kept pace in the Eastern Conference standings as both clubs battled for playoff positioning.
Statistical Breakdown
Matches Played: 18
Atlanta United Wins: 7
Inter Miami Wins: 7
Draws: 4
Goals Scored (Atlanta): 28
Goals Scored (Miami): 27
Average Goals per Game: Over 3
Both Teams Scoring: In roughly 78% of matches
Clean Sheets: Rare — typically one or none per meeting
The data highlights the unpredictability and entertainment value of this fixture. Rarely do the two sides produce a dull encounter, with both preferring to play on the front foot and attack in numbers.
Looking Ahead
Heading into the 2026 MLS season, both Atlanta United and Inter Miami are expected to remain among the strongest teams in the Eastern Conference. With star power on Miami’s side and a youthful, energetic squad under Atlanta’s management, future meetings are likely to be just as fiery and goal-laden as before.
Whether it’s Messi dazzling the crowd or Atlanta’s dynamic midfield breaking lines at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, this matchup continues to be one of the most exciting in MLS.
In just a few short years, Atlanta United vs Inter Miami has transformed from a new fixture into one of the league’s marquee rivalries — defined by passion, flair, and a nearly perfect statistical balance.
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