Major League Soccer faced a historical upset as Lionel Messi's Inter Miami suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to Atlanta United in the playoffs, eliminating them from the postseason. Despite being favorites, Atlanta's performance, combined with the controversial match-winning goal, secured their spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals. This loss highlighted the ramifications of the new MLS Cup Playoff format introduced 21 months ago.

Social media was ablaze with reactions to the unexpected outcome, with users expressing various sentiments:

- Some users emphasized the unpredictability of sports, noting that upsets like this exemplify the competitive nature of the game despite favoritism.

- Others criticized MLS's focus on revenue over competitive integrity, suggesting that the league's decision-making may have compromised the overall quality of the competition.

- A user highlighted the potential impact of the playoff structure on the league's history, citing concerns about the evolving format and its implications for the sport's legacy.

- Contrary to the criticism, some defended the playoff format, arguing that the best-of-three setup creates a fairer and more competitive environment, challenging teams to perform consistently.

- There was a mix of opinions regarding MLS's direction, with comments about the league's decision-making, revenue priorities, and future growth prospects.

While Messi's playoff exit and Miami's defeat sparked controversy, it prompted discussions on the broader implications for MLS, its competitive structure, and the balance between revenue and sporting integrity. As the league navigates these challenges, the aftermath of this playoff upset continues to resonate across social media platforms.