Acosta and Cucho Fight Hard, But Messi Dominates MLS

Atlanta United stars Ezequiel Barco and Luiz Araújo combined to break down FC Cincinnati three times Saturday in a 3-1 win.

Despite impressive performances by FC Cincinnati's Acosta and Cucho Hernandez, Lionel Messi's 10th-minute opener proved insurmountable.

Atlanta United picked up three crucial points Saturday night with a 3-1 win over FC Cincinnati, but the night belonged to Lionel Messi.

The Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a stunning free kick, and Atlanta never looked back, improving to 5-4-4 on the season.

Ezequiel Barco and Luiz Araújo added goals in the second half for Atlanta, while Brandon Vazquez scored a consolation goal for Cincinnati in the 85th minute.

The win was Atlanta's first since April 16, and it snapped a two-game losing streak.

Cincinnati, meanwhile, fell to 4-6-3 and has now lost three straight games.

Atlanta dominated the match from start to finish, outshooting Cincinnati 17-5 and holding a 62%-38% advantage in possession.

Messi was at the heart of everything Atlanta did well, creating chances for his teammates and dictating the tempo of the game.

Barco's goal in the 55th minute was a thing of beauty, as he curled a shot into the top corner from outside the box.

Araújo added his goal in the 75th minute, finishing off a nice passing move from Barco and Messi.

Vazquez's goal was a well-taken finish, but it came too late to make a difference.

Atlanta will look to build on this win when they travel to face the New England Revolution next Saturday.

Cincinnati will look to get back on track when they host the Columbus Crew next Saturday.

Despite impressive performances by FC Cincinnati's Acosta and Cucho Hernandez, Lionel Messi's 10th-minute opener proved insurmountable.