In his debut for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi, the Argentine legend, created an unforgettable moment on Friday, July 21. Playing in the Leagues Cup match against Mexican club Cruz Azul, Messi scored a dramatic late winner with a stunning free-kick from approximately 25 yards out in the 94th minute, leading Inter Miami to a thrilling 2-1 victory.
The 36-year-old football icon had recently joined Inter Miami on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired. His eagerly awaited debut took place in the opening match of the 2023 tournament between MLS and Liga MX sides.
In the 54th minute of the game, Messi, along with another new signing, Sergio Busquets, was brought on to the field amidst a lively atmosphere. The MLS side, led by Robert Taylor's first-half goal, held the lead until Uriel Antuna equalized for Cruz Azul ten minutes after Messi's arrival.
However, in the 95th minute, a crucial moment unfolded for Inter Miami as they were awarded a free-kick within Messi's territory. Unfazed by the pressure, Messi confidently stepped up and executed a perfectly placed shot over the defensive wall and into the corner of the net, leaving the opposing goalkeeper, Andres Gudino, helpless.
The goal sparked jubilation among the sold-out crowd, which included sports icons such as NBA star LeBron James, tennis legend Serena Williams, and media personality Kim Kardashian. It also marked Inter Miami's first victory in any match since May 23rd, boosting the team's morale and overall spirits.
Speaking to ESPN after his debut heroics, Messi expressed his satisfaction with the decisive goal, stating that he was aware it was their last chance, and he gave it his best effort. He acknowledged the importance of securing wins for the team, especially considering their current standings in the league, and hoped that this triumph would boost their overall performance.
LIONEL ANDRÉS MESSI IS NOT HUMAN. pic.twitter.com/2mBDI41mLy
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 22, 2023
Inter Miami’s co-owner David Beckham also had a broad grin at the final whistle. He told reporters;
“To be honest, as soon as I saw the free kick given I thought this is the way it’s meant to end. Especially when you’ve got players like Leo and Sergio on the pitch, that’s what they produce.
“It’s so exciting tonight for our fans. All of these people that come down here to see Leo just step onto the pitch, let alone just do what he’s done. It’s a dream come true for everyone in this stadium to see. It’s such a moment for this country, such a moment for this league.”