Jordi Alba Calls Referee
"Coward" After Inter Miami's Shocking Playoff Exit
Inter Miami Eliminated by
Atlanta United in MLS Playoffs
Inter Miami's hopes for an MLS Cup title were
dashed on Saturday after a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Atlanta United in the
playoffs. Despite a strong regular season performance, which saw them top the
Eastern Conference with a record 74 points, Miami’s playoff run ended in
disappointment. The loss has left the team, particularly veteran defender Jordi
Alba, fuming over controversial decisions during the match.
Controversial Refereeing
Calls Spark Fury
Jordi Alba, a former Barcelona left-back, was
furious with referee Lukasz Szpala’s decisions throughout the match. The
Spaniard was especially vocal about two key moments: the refusal to award Miami
a first-half penalty and a contentious third goal for Atlanta, which came while
Miami defender Tomas Aviles appeared to be down injured. Alba did not hold back
his frustrations, repeatedly calling the referee "a coward" during
the game, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo.
Alba Questions Playoff
Format After Defeat
In his post-match comments, Alba expressed
disappointment not only in the refereeing but also in the structure of the MLS
playoffs. Despite Miami's impressive record, the team faced an early exit,
which Alba felt was unfair. "We have been the most consistent team,
beating the points record, but what we wanted was to win this playoff," he
said. Alba questioned the format, suggesting that the champions of the two
conferences should face off directly in the final, rather than the current
playoff structure.
Respect for Atlanta Despite
the Defeat
While critical of the officiating, Alba was
also gracious in acknowledging Atlanta's performance. He praised goalkeeper
Brad Guzan, who made several crucial saves, and credited Atlanta for their
strong showing. "They competed very well against us," said Alba,
offering a backhanded compliment to the victors.
Miami's Disappointment and
What’s Next
Despite finishing with a historic 74 points
in the regular season, Inter Miami's playoff journey ended in disappointment.
The team now faces a long wait until the 2025 season, with Alba’s future with
the club uncertain as his contract expires at the end of the year. Whether
Miami will exercise the option to extend his deal remains to be seen.
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