Lionel Messi's Epic Inter Miami Debut: Unforgettable Last-Gasp Free-Kick Leaves Star-Studded Crowd in Awe
Lionel Messi shines in his Inter Miami debut, stunning audiences with a last-gasp free-kick to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory Witnessed by an array of star-studded spectators including LeBron James and Serena Williams, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner showcases his magic, delivering a glorious moment for the struggling Miami team
Lionel Messi made a thrilling start to his Inter Miami journey by concluding his debut with an extraordinary winning free-kick against Cruz Azul in the dying moments of extra time. Following his World Cup triumph seven months ago, all eyes in the footballing realm were fixed on Florida, eagerly awaiting the first appearance of the seven-time Ballon d'Or recipient.
Messi's long-awaited debut in Miami proved to be worth the wait as he played a crucial role in an unforgettable Leagues Cup victory. After Robert Taylor scored an excellent opener which was later canceled out by Uriel Antuna, the 36-year-old stepped up in the final moments to score and send DRV PNK Stadium into a state of delirium.
Messi, amidst the post-game celebrations, stated in an on-field interview, "What I witnessed was the objective. I had my sights on the goal and knew I had to make it count. As it was the final moments of the game, I was determined to score and avoid going into penalties."
Inter Miami's head coach, Tata Martino, who previously coached Messi at Barcelona, remarked, "We've witnessed this story unfold before."
The event concluded with a perfect finish, drawing fans of every generation donning 'Messi 10' jerseys. Notably, celebrated figures such as LeBron James, Serena Williams, Kim Kardashian, and, naturally, Inter Miami owner David Beckham were present in the eagerly anticipated, packed audience.
In pictures: Messi magic
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LaBron James along with Serena Williams recorded Messi on their phones as he prepares to make his Inter Miami debut
How Messi delivered a glorious moment for struggling Miami
With a sense of pride, the co-owner of Miami observed the proceedings from a box adjacent to the dugout, casting an uncomfortable gaze on the initial interactions unfolding on the field. It was evident that Miami, occupying the lowest position in the Eastern Conference, was struggling to assert their dominance.Inter weathered the initial storm and seized control moments before halftime when Taylor's splendid, low shot found the back of the net off the post, leaving Messi elated.
The crowd showered the forward with applause all game long, erupting in joyous cheers as he stepped onto the field in the 54th minute, taking over the captain's duties while Sergio Busquets made his debut as well.
Jordi Alba has also agreed to join Tata Martino, their former Barcelona boss, in Miami. However, there is still work to be done, as evident when Cruz Azul deservedly equalized through Antuna.
As the game neared its end, the Mexicans had a good chance to snatch the victory, but this was ultimately Messi's night.
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The 36-year-old was successful in earning a free-kick during the final moments of stoppage time. There was an undeniable feeling of certainty as he skillfully directed the resulting set piece towards the top left-hand corner, coinciding with fireworks illuminating the sky.
This proved to be an incredibly significant occasion for Major League Soccer and an unforgettable night for North American football. It marked 48 years since Pele's remarkable debut with the New York Cosmos and exactly 16 years since Beckham made his highly anticipated introduction to the LA Galaxy.
Messi's name resounded among the exhilarated fans as the hosts struggled in a disorganized manner while Cruz Azul playfully toyed with them. In the midst of this initial onslaught, Carlos Rotondi struck the post with an early attempt. The online sphere of Twitter captured the fervor surrounding these events.
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Miami provided minimal contribution, however, a moment of brilliance emerged after a pause to address Ian Fray's alarming injury. Robbie Robinson delivered a diagonal pass to Taylor, who positioned himself excellently on the left side. The Finnish player expertly maneuvered his way inside, creating room, and successfully struck a powerful right-footed shot that found the back of the net by bouncing in off the distant post.
Messi, still energized from his celebration, eagerly prepared to enter the game as the significant moment finally unfolded in the 54th minute.
With a thunderous cheer, Argentina's captain, Benjamin Cremaschi, graciously stepped aside to make room for Messi, who proudly donned the captain's armband. Adding to the excitement, former Barcelona teammate Busquets and Josef Martinez joined Messi as part of a dynamic triple substitution.
Whenever Messi touched the ball, an electrifying atmosphere filled the air. Despite this, the Mexican visitors continued to create chances and managed to equalize in the 65th minute. Antuna, seizing the opportunity, collected the ball dangerously, and Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender struggled to handle his powerful strike.
Messi displayed glimpses of brilliance, demonstrating both skill and composure as the game shifted back and forth with both teams searching for a victory.
In a fast-paced and chaotic encounter, Callender was prevented from scoring by Ignacio Rivero, adding to the tense atmosphere. Additionally, Messi received a well-executed pass from Busquets but unfortunately, his subsequent shot was blocked.
Martinez appeared to be the victor, but Messi had wandered far offside before making the pass. Simultaneously, Callender made a remarkable save when Christian Tabo attempted a shot on the opposite side.
The game seemed destined for a penalty shoot-out, but Messi had alternative plans in mind.
Fouled by Carlos Salcedo, it set up the chance for an unforgettable finish and the debutant delivered a thrilling final blow.
