MLS playoffs Game 3 between Inter Miami and Atlanta United had everything. Beyond the emotional rollercoaster to witness goals and galore, things got heated between the sides, with Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan against Luis Suarez and Leo Campana. But in the surprising turn of events, the aftermath saw their very own teammate Jordi Alba heap praise over ‘Outstanding‘ Brad Guzan.

Of course, the 40-year-old skipper deserves the much-needed praise, having made seven crucial saves alone in the night against the very rivals, who had taken a total of 25 shots, out of which 10 were on target (Guzan’s own team had taken 9 shots, with just 4 being on target). In a game where typically all the goal scorers would get praised, Miami’s Alba just had to give a shoutout to the rival goalie.

Speaking in the post-game interview with Area Sports Network, he said,  “I think we controlled the game throughout. They defended well and their counter-attacks were dangerous,” praising the Five Stripes’ display. The former FC Barcelona left-back then quickly turned the spotlight on Guzman, adding, “But their goalkeeper was also outstanding in every match and I believe that was the key difference.”

After a respectful moment to recognize his opponent’s quality, the latter then discussed his team’s weaknesses, urging his side to reflect and retrospect on the poor defeat and avoid such mistakes. “We need to analyze our mistakes as a team for future growth. Clearly, these games demand more from everyone. Today was disappointing. The team tried but it just wasn’t enough,” concluded Alba.

Looks like the former Valencia man is disappointed over the fact his side failed to progress through the next stage of the playoffs. Then again, it didn’t seem it was Miami’s day at the office. Notably, Matias Rojas had opened the account for the Florida-based club within 17 minutes, only for them to see Atlanta United equalize and then double their lead within a couple of minutes thanks to a brace from Jamal Thiare.

Interestingly, five minutes after the hour mark, Lionel Messi scored an equalizer to reignite the hopes of a comeback. However, in the 76th minute, Bartosz Slisz found the winner for Atlanta, with Rob Valentino’s side saving themselves from conceding another until the final whistle from the referee made sure the visitors won.

One can say it was a poetic win from Atlanta, who lost the opening match against the David Beckham-owned side but eventually won the latter two games. Not to forget a rather unpleasant tale that had also transpired in between the game.

Brad Guzan must have cooled off over his fight incident after hearing out Jordi Alba!

Tensions flared sharply after Lionel Messi scored his second goal for Inter Miami. Following the goal, Guzan tried to prevent Messi from quickly restarting play by blocking him from taking the ball at the center spot. However, Messi managed to seize the ball from the veteran goalkeeper. This action angered Leo Campana, who immediately shoved Guzan, sending him stumbling backward.

As Guzan struggled to regain his balance, Luis Suarez approached aggressively, shouting and pointing at him. Clearly upset, Guzan voiced his frustration at Suarez, and the referee had to intervene to calm the situation. Subsequently, Guzan’s frustration also extended to the referee, with other players from both sides coming to defuse the situation.

Of course, such things tend to happen in a tension-filled atmosphere. Regardless, Brad Guzman won’t be upset over this incident after hearing Jordi Alba’s heartfelt confession.