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    Inter Miami left stunned after MLS Cup play-off defeat despite blunder from Premier League cult hero gifting them goal

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    INTER MIAMI were left stunned as they lost in their MLS Cup play-off second leg.That is despite being gifted a goal following an absolute howler from a Premier League cult hero.Brad Guzman suffered a nightmare mistake in goal for Atlanta United against Inter MiamiCredit: Apple tvHe messed up his clearance to gift away a goalCredit: Apple tvDavid Martinez capitalised in styleCredit: Apple tvFormer Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan suffered the nightmare five minutes before half-time.There appeared to be no danger when the veteran 40-year-old had the ball safely in his hands in the Atlanta United penalty area. However, as he went to clear upfield, he got himself into a right pickle, dropping the ball and falling on the floor.Replays showed Federico Redondo dummied to interrupt the clearance – but crucially feinted and did not actually attempt to make a block which would have resulted in a free-kick.READ MORE ON INTER MIAMIInstead, Redondo gratefully accepted the loose ball at his feet and played a simple pass to David Martinez.And the defender showed the composure of his team-mate Lionel Messi to delicately chip the ball over the Atlanta defenders into the empty net to break the deadlock. Guzan immediately complained to the referee but his protests fell on deaf ears as the goal was allowed to stand. Ironically, Guzan had been hailed as playing like “prime Buffon” in the first leg.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe American made nine saves and even made a tackle on Messi 30 yards out from his goal. But despite his shocking blunder on Saturday, Guzan had the last laugh.Watch moment raging Lionel Messi ‘calls referee -mean-spirited son of a b****’ in furious rant after Inter Miami drawDerrick Williams equalised just before the hour mark for Atlanta before Xande Silva grabbed a winner deep into injury time at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.That secured the 2-1 victory for Atlanta – balancing out the 2-1 Inter Miami win in the first leg last Saturday.But rather than go to extra-time and then penalties if needed, instead a third leg will take place in Florida next weekend to determine who will progress to the MLS Cup Conference semi-finals – with the winner facing Orlando City or Charlotte FC. David Beckham’s club will host the all-important deciding third leg because they finished top of the Eastern Conference – whereas Atlanta were bottom of the nine-team division. Lionel Messi benefitted from the appalling blunderCredit: GettyGuzan’s complaints were ignored by the refereeCredit: Apple TVMartínez, right, could not believe his luckCredit: GettyXande Silva rifled home a dramatic late winner for Atlanta UnitedCredit: EPASilva’s whipped his shirt off in celebrationCredit: EPAGuzan got the last laugh as Atlanta recorded the famous 2-1 winCredit: EPAMessi’s side will now play a third leg next weekend in their MLS Cup play-offCredit: EPAThe Argentine has not scored in either of the games so farCredit: Getty More

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      Nottingham Forest star ready to snub Leeds interest to seal permanent transfer to the MLS with LAFC

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      LEWIS O’BRIEN looks set to sign for LAFC on a permanent deal in the new year — despite a handful of English sides wanting him back home.The midfielder, 26, has a fixed price of £7million agreed with current club Nottingham Forest when his loan spell in Los Angeles ends in January.Lewis O’Brien looks set to sign for LAFC on a permanent deal in the new yearCredit: GettyLAFC expect the move to go through although some Championship clubs are making background inquiries.Leeds and Hull have been checking on his availability but O’Brien is settled in the States and enjoying his time on and off the pitch.The midfielder has made nine appearances Stateside this year and impressed during his time away. O’Brien even revealed family and friends are getting up at all hours to watch his games. READ MORE FOOTBALLHe said: “Some of my friends and family are definitely waking up at 3-4 o’clock in the morning to watch the games, [which] is a tough thing to do when you’ve got to work a job the next day. “But there’s definitely people tuning in.”But O’Brien has also had to play on artificial turfs like in Vancouver – a stark difference to pitches in the UK.He said: “It takes the body quite a while to adjust to the turf, but that’s after the game, so during it’s not really that much of a problem. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”It probably took me an extra few days to recover from the game. “But if we can do the job when we get there, we won’t have to see the AstroTurf again.”Watch moment raging Lionel Messi ‘calls referee -mean-spirited son of a b****’ in furious rant after Inter Miami draw More

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      Inside mad world of Inter Miami changing football forever as billionaires and celebs jump on Messi and Beckham bandwagon

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      WELCOME to Miami — football’s newest frontier.The arrival of David Beckham and, eventually, Lionel Messi in the city sparked an almighty South Florida land grab.Many celebrity’s have shown an interest in David Beckham’s Inter MiamiCredit: INSTAGRAM @intermiamicfLionel Messi is the highest-profile player to have signed for the clubCredit: GettyLeBron James was present for the Argentine’s debut at the clubCredit: InstagramThe club won the Leagues Cup in 2023Credit: GettyBandwagons are being frantically hitched to Inter Miami and Messi in the scramble for American eyeballs and — more importantly — cash.The impact has not just been Stateside. Inter Miami are now a global symbol for the Magic City.Walk in any major city around the world and it will not be long before you see their pink shirt worn or on sale somewhere.Once Beckham — who is part-owner alongside Jorge Mas and Jose Mas — set his sights on the city to start a franchise everyone slowly started following.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFifa has based its preparations for the 2026 World Cup in Miami before moving to a new huge office, its first outside of Europe, in the Coral Gables area — just five minutes from Miami owner Mas’ MasTec headquarters.Concacaf is just up the road.The Argentinian FA has opened an office in the city and is also building a training facility nearby too, while nations and top club sides continue to visit Inter Miami’s Florida Blue training ground.That high-end base in Fort Lauderdale, will almost certainly host one of the 48 nations competing at the 2026 World Cup.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIt will be no surprise if Argentina pitch up there.Messi’s arrival in Major League Soccer was the catalyst — his pull is why they are all there.Watch moment raging Lionel Messi ‘calls referee -mean-spirited son of a b****’ in furious rant after Inter Miami drawHollywood star Will Smith is another celeb to attend a matchCredit: InstagramHe and Martin Lawrence had club shirts made on “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” Miami Release DayCredit: GettyBeckham owns the club alongside Jorge MasCredit: ReutersThe Chase Stadium holds a capacity of 21,550Credit: AlamyMiami is the American city most invested in football, with a huge Spanish speaking population and offers a straightforward jumping-off point to South America.There are business arguments for everyone choosing Miami as a base. But the stardust is the real catalyst.Xavier Asensi, the former Barcelona chief who is now president of business operations at Inter Miami, told SunSport: “It’s everything around Miami, the sexiness. Miami has always been aspirational, outside of the US too. Football is global, Messi and Beckham.“After Covid, a lot of celebrities moved here — it is super well-connected.“It is a mosaic and a place that embraces and welcomes people from all over the world. You have the two largest languages in use around the world here.“All this combined creates this aura, which gives a power and, if you know how to action it, the sky is the limit.“The aspiration that Jorge and Beckham have is that when people think about  soccer in the United States, they think about Miami and I think we can proudly say we ticked that box.”Celebrity after celebrity have lined up to witness Inter Miami’s star quartet, with Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets joining Messi on his retirement residency in the Sunshine State.Film stars Will Smith and Idris Elba, as well as NBA legend LeBron James have all taken seats pitchside to witness what has admittedly been a record-breaking season.Inter Miami have set a points record for the regular season, during which they won the Supporters Shield — a nominal league title awarded before the play-offs begin.That achievement allowed Fifa to, incredibly hastily and, to the anger of other MLS clubs, announce that suddenly the Supporters Shield winner would qualify for their Club World Cup next summer.The opening game held, of course,  in Miami.And Gianni Infantino, the Fifa president desperate to ride Messi’s coat-tails into America, was at the club’s Chase Stadium to announce the decision.He said: “Miami loves football. The world loves football, and the world loves Miami.”Whether the world will look to Miami for football or not, the power brokers certainly are. Soccerex, the forum which many senior figures flock to for a back-slap and some free booze each year, has moved its headquarters there and will host the next event in the city.Those with cash to spare in the area are looking to football too.The latest social must-have in the golf and country clubs is not a flash car or watch, but a football club.READ MORE SUN STORIESJohn Textor, the Crystal Palace co-owner who launched a failed bid for Everton, bases his Eagle Football group just north of Miami.The city has long been known as the Gateway to the Americas — many in football are now banking on it being their path to a huge slice of the American market.Xavier Asensi has insisted that the aim is for Inter Miami to become the biggest club in the USCredit: Rex More

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      Holden Trent dead aged 25: Tributes pour in for Philadelphia Union goalkeeper after sudden death of MLS star

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      AN MLS footballer has tragically died aged just 25.Philadelphia Union announced the passing of goalkeeper Holden Trent on Saturday afternoon.Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Holden Trent died aged 25Credit: Instagram @holdentrent93The club released a statement on Saturday afternoonCredit: X @PhilaUnionNo cause of death has been released at this stage although Trent was admitted to intensive care on Thursday, according to reports from Yahoo.The club are in mourning following the awfully sad news.They said: “The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking passing of Holden Trent. “While he was a wonderful player and fierce competitor, he was more importantly a devoted son, brother, fiance, and team-mate who made those around him better. READ MORE ON MLS”He embodied the true meaning of determination, dedication and perseverance, and he will be deeply missed. “We extend our greatest sympathies to his family, his fiance and his friends.”Union’s fellow MLS clubs including Portland Timbers, FC Cincinnati, San Jose Earthquakes, Sporting Kansas City, New England Revolution and New York Red Bulls all replied with their condolences. Trent was selected by Philadelphia in the 2023 MLS Draft from High Point University – playing for the club for two seasons and making six appearances for the second team.Most read in FootballHe was also an unused sub eight times for the club in the 2024 season. Trent’s grieving family also posted a statement of their own on the goalkeeper’s Instagram page. They wrote: “We want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. “Holden passed away this afternoon surrounded by his family and friends.”Details on services and celebration of life are forthcoming.”Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden.”Love, Holden’s Family.”Devastated fans and followers flooded the comments with emotional messages of support and love.’WILL CHERISH ALL OUR MEMORIES’One said: “I love you brother, one of the most genuine people I know. I’ll never forget what you have done for me since day one brother, I love you and I’m always going to keep your name alive bro please watch over us bro.”Another wrote: “So sorry Holden – you will be missed.”A third added: “Love you forever Holden.”A fourth replied: “We love you Holden and will keep your love alive.”And a final team-mate typed: “I love you brother. Will cherish all of our memories on and off the field.”Trent and fiancee Brie Losito got engaged at the end of 2023, with the football proposing in Florence on a romantic pre-Christmas trip to Italy. MLS Commissioner Don Garber said: “Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic passing of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent.
”A young goalkeeper with a bright future, Trent showcased determination and professionalism every day as he contributed to the close-knit goalkeeping unit at Philadelphia.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancee, his family and friends, his team-mates and the entire Philadelphia Union community. “MLS is coordinating with the club to provide players and family members with the resources and support they need during this tragic time.”Friends, family and the football community paid tribute to the shot-stopperCredit: Alamy More

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      Premier League cult hero, 40, pulls out ‘Prime Buffon appearance’ that leaves even Lionel Messi stunned

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      A FORMER Premier League keeper left Lionel Messi stunned with his performance in the MLS on Friday night.Eastern Conference champions Inter Miami claimed a 2-1 win over Atlanta United in the first of a three-match play-off series.Lionel Messi was thwarted a number of times by the veteran keeperCredit: AFPThe Argentine icon could not believe some of the savesCredit: AFPYet Messi’s all-star side could have had a host more goals had it not been for Atlanta’s 40-year-old shot-stopper.He made an astonishing NINE saves in the match and was compared by one social media user to Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon.The display also included him thwarting Messi in a one-on-one situation with a tackle 30 YARDS from his goal.The keeper in question was ex-Aston Villa man Brad Guzan.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGuzan, who has 64 caps for USA, spent eight years at Villa and made 171 appearances.However, he was never particularly rated by English football fans and left to return to America in 2017 after a short spell at Middlesbrough.Yet he looked better than ever in the MLS on Friday night – six weeks after his 40th birthday.And even Messi looked stunned by some of the stops he was making.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSReacting to Guzan’s performance, one fan said: “Incredible performance by the keeper. I’ll be honest, I felt Messi needed to get Guzan’s shirt 😅.”Another added: “Brad Guzan just casually had a Prime Buffon performance at 40 years of age… GOODNESS!”David Beckham rewarded as Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to second trophy by knocking reigning champions off their perch A third replied: “Brad Guzan had nine saves tonight, almost all of them un-routine. He also won a one-v-one tackle against Messi 30 yards off his line.”He has been amazing this year, and again tonight.”While a fourth responded: “He really should get a national team call up for a final match.”Inter Miami still won the game thanks to goals from Barcelona legends Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba.A victory in Atlanta on Saturday, November 2 would book their place in the Conference semi-finals – where they will play Orlando City or Charlotte.Guzan spent eight years at Aston Villa and played 171 times for the clubCredit: PA:Empics Sport More

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      David Beckham plants kiss on cheek of daughter Harper at Inter Miami game as wife Victoria and son Cruz also attend

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      DAVID BECKHAM kissed daughter Harper on her cheek during Inter Miami’s game against Atlanta United.Wife Victoria and son Cruz were also in attendance at the Chase Stadium.David Beckham kissed daughter Harper on the cheek before kick-offCredit: APSon Cruz was also in attendanceCredit: APCruz has been at several Inter Miami games this yearCredit: GettyVictoria Beckham also turned up for the crunch clashCredit: AFPIt was a big occasion for the Beckhams’ with Inter Miami competing in the MLS Cup play-offs, having won the Eastern Conference.Miami got off to a fast start as Luis Suarez scored in the second minute, and they went on to win the match 2-1 with another former Barcelona player Jordi Alba grabbing the winner.Beckham, 49, was in a good mood even before kick-off and he planted a kiss on his daughter Harper, 13, who looked less than impressed.Cruz, 19, was spotted back alongside his dad having watched Lionel Messi score a hat-trick for Inter Miami last week with his girlfriend Jackie Apostel.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMiami’s win over Atlanta means they need just one more victory to progress to the Eastern Conference semi-finals.Eight teams qualified for the play-offs with Atlanta winning a wildcard match in order to take on Inter Miami in a best of three.The next game will be hosted by Atlanta on November 2 and if the home team win a third match will be played – back at the Chase Stadium.Inter Miami already have one foot in the semi-finals and will have to win that tie and the Eastern Conference final to qualify for the MLS Cup final.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBeckham’s side have only once qualified for the MLS play-offs, in 2022, but lost in the first round to New York City FC.This time around they are one of the favourites to go all the way after winning their conference by eight points, while Messi has hit brilliant form with 22 goals in 23 games.She’s so pretty! say Victoria Beckham’s fans as daughter Harper jumps on her Instagram for make-up tutorial More

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      David Beckham’s Inter Miami at centre of MLS scandal with rivals furious at spot in controversial tournament

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      INTER MIAMI’S addition to the Club World Cup has left Major League Soccer rivals furious with Fifa.Gianni Infantino, the Fifa president, announced this week that David Beckham’s MLS franchise will take the America host nation spot for next summer’s controversial tournament.Inter Miami’s Club World Cup qualification has seen Fifa criticisedCredit: APFifa chef Gianni Infantino gave a speech as Inter Miami lifted the Supporters ShieldCredit: ReutersInfantino pointed to Inter Miami winning the Supporters Shield, awarded to the club who perform the best over the regular season, as the reason for their qualification.The actual MLS champion is decided through the play-offs.But with the reason for Miami’s inclusion not given before they lifted the trophy, their rivals have accused Fifa of having no clear qualification criteria.And they claim they have jumped the gun simply to ensure that Lionel Messi is involved in the revamped 32-team tournament.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSeattle Sounders are the other team from the US involved and they booked their spot having won the Concacaf Champions Cup in 2022.Fifa had been in discussions with MLS over criteria this season, before deciding on the Supporters Shield winner at their Council meeting on October 3 – the day after Miami sealed the title.MLS insist all decision-making around the final slot was dealt with by the world governing body.Not only have Beckham’s boys been given the host nation spot, but they will also play in the curtain raiser in Miami on June 15.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOther clubs have always felt that Miami have had special treatment from the league due to their high profile stars – something which has always been denied.Four ex-Barcelona legends are in the squad – Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets.Inside David and Victoria Beckham’s stunning new £60m Miami mansion with spa, pool, rooftop bar overlooking Biscayne BayTheir success on the pitch this season, setting a points record for the regular season, gives officials a simple answer when questions are asked.Elite European sides like Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, PSG, Inter Milan, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are all in the Club World Cup. More

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      Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez miss out on becoming MLS top scorer as Premier League cult hero tops list

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      LIONEL MESSI and Luis Suarez have missed out on the MLS top scorer award despite their fine form this season.They helped Inter Miami finish top of the Eastern Conference for the first time in the club’s short history.Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi finished joint-second in the top scorer rankingsCredit: GettyChristian Benteke scooped the awardCredit: APIt is a remarkable turnaround for David Beckham’s team, who had only qualified for the play-offs once previously and last year finished second bottom.Messi, 37, has rolled back the years in his first full MLS season, having joined Miami in the summer of 2023.He helped them win the Leagues Cup last season and Inter Miami could win silverware once again now they are in the MLS Cup play-offs.They are amongst the favourites after achieving a record-breaking points tally of 74 in the regular season, with the side packed with icons.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMessi scored his first hat-trick against New England Revolution last week and finished the regular season with 20 goals.His team-mate Luis Suarez achieved the same total but the legendary pair were beaten to top spot by a Premier League cult hero.Former Aston Villa, Liverpool and Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke took the top goalscorer prize after netting 23 goals for DC United.Fans were shocked to see Benteke win with one saying: “Messi cant even outscore washed Benteke😭 this league is so bad.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother added: “Messi lost to Benteke 😂”And a third wrote: “So Benteke is still balling.”Christian Benteke works up a sweat in some intense solo trainingMessi managed his 20 goals in just 19 games however, compared to Benteke’s 30. More

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      Messi could face Europe’s elite again as his 11-minute hat-trick fires Beckham’s Inter Miami into Fifa Club World Cup

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      LIONEL MESSI scored a stunning 11-minute hat-trick to book Inter Miami’s spot in the Fifa Club World Cup.The expanded 32-team tournament will take place from June 15 to July 3 in the United States.Inter Miami won the MLS Supporter ShieldCredit: APThey have accumulated the most points in a single season in MLS historyCredit: AFPDavid Beckham’s side have qualified for the Club World CupCredit: ReutersFifa president Gianni Infantino confirmed their spot in the revamped competitionCredit: ReutersElite European sides like Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, PSG, Inter Milan, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are all in the competition.And now Inter Miami have secured their spot in the competition by winning the MLS Supporters Shield.The trophy is given to the team who finish the regular season with the most points in either conference, with the subsequent play-offs deciding the league’s actual champion.Inter Miami secured the Supporters Shield by thrashing New England 6-2.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMessi scored three goals in 11 second-half minutes to take his tally to 22 goals in 22 games.But ex-Premier League and DC United star Christian Benteke is a goal ahead of him at the top of the scoring charts.Inter Miami have finished the season with the highest ever points tally with 74.Messi celebrated the successful season by lifting the trophy on the pitch and was joined by club owner David Beckham, his wife Victoria and daughter Harper, 13.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMeanwhile, his son Cruz, 19, and his girlfriend Jackie Apostel, 29, watched on from the stands.But Fifa chief Gianni Infantino was on the field and announced their spot in the Club World Cup, saying: “You have shown that in the United States, you are consistently the best club on the field of play.David Beckham imposes strict fashion rule on Lionel Messi and Inter Miami team-mates leaving Rio Ferdinand stunned”Therefore, I am proud to announce that as one of the best clubs in the world, you are deserved participants in the new Club World Cup 2025.”Beckham then took the microphone and delivered a rousing speech, saying: “Firstly, thank you to our coach Gerardo Martino and your staff.”To our incredible team, our players, our captain has led us during times where it has been difficult.”Tonight, we celebrate. But tomorrow we prepare for the play-offs.”This was always about creating history for Miami, this was always about our family, the people in this stadium, the people in this city. “Tonight is about you guys because you supported us in the tough times and now the good times.”Let’s make this a great year and an even better year than it already is because it is already a special club.”Cruz Beckham was seen with his girlfriend Jackie Apostel celebrating the victoryCredit: APThey have been dating for five monthsCredit: APMessi netted a hat-trick against New EnglandCredit: ReutersInter Miami now go into the play-offs as the favouritesCredit: Reuters More