Lionel Messi takes just seven minutes to break deadlock as Inter Miami forward continues hot streak
Lionel Messi has continued his impressive goal-scoring form by finding the back of the net just seven minutes into Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash against Orlando City.
Despite a delay caused by adverse weather conditions in Florida, the 36-year-old wasted no time in making an impact. Messi broke the deadlock for Miami in the seventh minute, volleying home from close range. This goal marked his fourth since joining the MLS side.
Messi was quick to acknowledge teammate Ryan Taylor for providing the assist. Taylor expertly found Messi inside the box with a lofted through ball, allowing the 2022 World Cup winner to capitalize on the opportunity and score from close range.
The goal sparked jubilant celebrations from both the fans and players, as Messi continued to impress in just his third outing for Inter. However, unlike his previous match against Atlanta United, there was no extravagant “hold my beer” celebration this time.
Unfortunately, Messi’s celebrations were short-lived, as Orlando City equalized in the 17th minute through Cesar Araujo. Messi had another chance to score his second of the match shortly after the half-hour mark, but his effort hit the post, leaving him disappointed.
The game got off to an eventful start due to a delay of over 90 minutes caused by torrential rain and lightning in the area. The pitch was waterlogged, and the players had to seek shelter in the dressing room.
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Let’s continue to enjoy Messi’s sensational performances since joining Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi demonstrated his scintillating form on Wednesday night, scoring in just seven minutes to break the deadlock against Inter Miami, ensuring Barcelona emerged with all three points.
The mercurial Argentine was instrumental in the opening goal of the game. After receiving the ball on the edge of the box, Messi produced a delightful drop of the shoulder before slamming the ball into the bottom corner of the net.
The goal capped a brilliant performance from the 34-year-old, who has been in fine form since his move from Barcelona to Inter Miami in January. The forward has already bagged nine goals in 14 matches for Miami, making him one of the hottest talents in the MLS.
It was a moment of divine inspiration that showed why Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, and it ensured that Inter Miami remain in contention for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
In the post-match press conference, manager Phil Neville praised Messi’s influence for the team. “That was vintage Messi – he can turn a game in an instant and he did so today,” he said.
Barcelona, meanwhile, extended their unbeaten run into double figures and moved up to third in the La Liga table. With Messi now spearheading their attack, they will be a major force in Spanish football and beyond.
Overall, it was another impressive performance from Messi, and one that should act as a warning to the rest of the MLS: be on your guard when the world’s best player comes to town.