Lionel Messi made his long-awaited debut for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami with the kind of flourish that only the world’s best player can provide.
Messi scored the game-winning goal in the last stages of the second half in a Leagues Cup encounter against Mexican club Cruz Azul, curling in a beautiful free-kick shot from beyond the box to secure the 2-1 Inter Miami victory at sold-out DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
“I spotted the goal. “I saw the goal and knew I had to score,” Messi said after the game on Apple TV. “It was the game’s final play, and I wanted to score so we didn’t go to penalties.” So it was critical for us to win since it is a new event, and it will give us confidence going ahead.”
Messi came on in the 54th minute, with Inter Miami leading 1-0.
In the 65th minute, Cruz Azul equalised, paving the way for Messi’s game-winning heroics.
After numerous close calls, Messi eventually got through in the 94th minute to cap off his debut with a storybook finish.
“As soon as I saw the free kick, I thought this is how it’s supposed to win, especially with players like Leo and Sergio (Busquets) on the pitch,” Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham said after the game on Apple TV.
“This is such a special night for us, our family, everyone in this stadium, and especially for you guys.” It’s a historic occasion for this nation, for this league, and for us.”
The celebs were in attendance to cheer on the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, including Beckham, NBA sensation LeBron James, tennis champion Serena Williams, and Kim Kardashian.
Inter Miami will meet MLS team Atlanta United in a Leagues Cup group round encounter at home on Tuesday.
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