Lionel Messi took the next step in Major League Soccer in InterMiamiThe MLS Cup playoff clash against Atlanta United.

The 37-year-old superstar scored his first career MLS playoff goal in Game 3 of the Best-of-Three series of the first round. Messi came close to scoring in the first two games of the series, but Atlanta and former USMNT goalkeeper Brad Guzan kept him off the scoresheet with some incredible saves.

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However, Messi finally made his mark in the MLS in the playoffs, but not with his favored left foot, but rather with a close-range headed effort.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner met Marcelo Weigandt’s cross as the towering Stian Gregersen was unable to reach the ball before Messi.

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The goal was Messi’s second goal of the playoffs after grabbing an assist in the opening game win over Atlanta. Messi’s goal in the third game gave Miami an equalizer in the first round, with the Herons facing elimination at home.

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