Lionel Messi Scores in MLS Debut as Inter Miami Triumphs 2-0, Continues Unstoppable Run
Lionel Messi’s debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) for Inter Miami turned out to be a roaring success as he came off the bench to score and secure a 2-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls. This triumph further extends Messi’s incredible run of form since arriving in the United States.
Despite Inter Miami’s recent successful campaigns in the Leagues Cup and the US Open Cup, coach Gerard ‘Tata’ Martino decided to leave Messi on the bench initially. However, when Messi entered the game in the 60th minute alongside former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, it didn’t take long for him to make his mark.
In the 89th minute, Jordi Alba skillfully directed the ball into the box, and Messi, using his extraordinary skill, twisted and turned before delivering a sublime pass with the outside of his foot to Benjamin Cremaschi. Cremaschi then delivered a low cross that was tapped in by Messi, adding another goal to his impressive tally.
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has now scored a remarkable 11 goals in just nine appearances across all competitions. His incredible performances have left his teammates in awe. Noah Allen, the 19-year-old defender for Miami, expressed his admiration, stating, He’s unbelievable, every day it’s something new, on and off the field. He’s an amazing person to play with, and I am so blessed to play alongside him.
Martino had previously mentioned that some of his players needed a break due to the intense schedule of eight games within a month. Sticking to his word, he made changes to the team’s lineup, which disappointed the capacity crowd at Red Bull Arena. Throughout the match, chants of We want Messi could be heard, and the game was even shown on a giant screen in Times Square, reflecting the excitement and anticipation surrounding Messi’s presence.
Inter Miami took the lead in the 37th minute with a well-executed play by Allen, who delivered a cross from the left for Paraguayan Diego Gomez to calmly slot home with his left foot. Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender showcased his skills by making a series of saves to maintain his team’s advantage, but the mounting pressure from the Red Bulls prompted Martino to bring on Messi, resulting in a shift in the game’s momentum.
This victory propels Inter Miami off the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings and narrows the gap to the last playoff spot to just 11 points with 11 games remaining. Martino acknowledged the desire of the fans to see Messi play but emphasized his role as coach in prioritizing Messi’s well-being. He said, I understand the desire of the people who want [Messi] to play, this will happen everywhere we go. But as the coach, I cannot be guided by those fans’ desires. My job is to make sure Leo takes care of himself.
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami coincided with the team’s transformation from an 11-match winless streak to an unbeaten run of nine games. His impact on the team has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his performances continue to mesmerize fans and teammates alike.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s MLS debut was nothing short of sensational as he showcased his immense talent by scoring a crucial goal. This victory adds another chapter to Inter Miami’s impressive run, thanks to Messi’s influence. Fans around the world eagerly anticipate witnessing more magic from the Argentine superstar as he continues to make his mark in the United States’ soccer scene.
