In a stunning turn of events, Inter Miami, led by football superstar Lionel Messi, was knocked out of the MLS playoffs by Atlanta United, causing a significant upset for the league and its broadcast partner, Apple. Despite the setback, there is an upside to the elimination for Major League Soccer, according to Kevin Baxter of the L.A. Times. The defeat of Inter Miami, often dubbed as the "Messi Soccer League," disrupted plans aimed at attracting a global audience for a championship game featuring the Argentine football icon.

Inter Miami, known for its high-profile acquisitions such as Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, sought to leverage its star-studded lineup to pursue an MLS title. However, Atlanta United's victory highlighted the league's commitment to parity and competitiveness, as the highest-paid team failed to secure the MLS Cup for the seventh consecutive year. While the loss may have dashed hopes of an explosive finale centered around Messi, it presents an opportunity to showcase the depth and strength of MLS as a whole.

The Athletic's Paul Tenorio emphasized the dual challenge facing MLS: capitalizing on Messi's star power to attract new fans while also ensuring sustained interest in the league beyond his tenure. With Messi's eventual departure looming, the remainder of the playoffs will serve as a litmus test for MLS's ability to engage viewers and retain their interest post-Messi era.

Social media responses varied, with some expressing skepticism regarding retaining Messi's fans post-elimination, while others highlighted the compelling narratives emerging in the playoffs. Despite concerns about reduced viewership without Messi, there was recognition of the competitive nature of the league and the opportunity to dispel misconceptions about its quality.

As MLS continues to navigate the aftermath of Inter Miami's unexpected exit, the focus shifts to the remaining teams and their quest for MLS glory, offering a chance for the league to showcase its resilience and appeal beyond individual star power.