In his first starting appearance for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance by netting two goals and providing an assist in a decisive 4-0 victory against Atlanta United. This comes right after his three-goal streak in his first two games for the team.
Messi, the Argentine legend and now 36-year-old, set the match on fire with two early goals in just 22 minutes and later assisted his teammate Robert Taylor in the latter half of the game. His second goal was celebrated by acknowledging Inter Miami’s owner, David Beckham. This successful performance builds on his last week’s debut, where he scored the winning goal in stoppage time.
Teammate Taylor praised Messi’s extraordinary skills saying, “He can handle the ball impeccably, making the right decisions constantly. His ability to find teammates and his invaluable addition to the team’s quality are unsurpassed. He is, undeniably, the world’s best player. To play alongside him is a dream come true.”
After concluding his contract with Paris St-Germain, Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or champion, recently joined the Major League Soccer team. He made a significant contribution to the French team, scoring 32 goals in 75 games over a two-year span. Despite receiving lucrative offers from numerous countries, Messi opted to join the US-based club.
The 2022 World Cup winner began the scoring spree in the ninth minute by skilfully controlling a pass from former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets, and then converting the rebound from his own shot. A partnership with Finland midfielder Taylor led to Messi’s second goal, a close-range finish from a low cross. Taylor added to the tally before half-time, and Messi assisted him for the final goal in the second half.
Messi’s remarkable performance was honored with a standing ovation as he was substituted in the 78th minute, which resulted in a number of fans departing from the 20,000-seat DRV PNK Stadium. Inter Miami’s head, Gerardo Martino, admitted he didn’t notice the mass exit, but acknowledged that Messi’s talent could justify such a reaction.
This triumphant win paves the way for Inter Miami to progress into the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup. Messi’s dedication to the team, even turning down multiple offers to play in the US, and his exceptional performance that earned him a standing ovation, emphasize his unparalleled stature in the world of soccer. As our coverage of your Premier League club expands, make sure to follow your team and sign up for notifications in the Sport News Center app to stay updated with every moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lionel Messi’s debut at Inter Miami
How many goals did Lionel Messi score in his first start for Inter Miami?
Lionel Messi scored two goals in his first start for Inter Miami.
Who did Inter Miami play against in this match?
Inter Miami played against Atlanta United in this match.
What was the final score of the match?
The final score of the match was 4-0, in favor of Inter Miami.
Who did Messi assist in the match?
Messi assisted his teammate Robert Taylor in the second half of the match.
How did Messi celebrate his second goal?
After scoring his second goal, Messi celebrated by pointing at Inter Miami owner David Beckham.
What was the reaction when Messi was substituted in the 78th minute?
When Messi was substituted in the 78th minute, he received a standing ovation, and a number of fans started leaving the stadium.
What was the result of this win for Inter Miami?
This win allowed Inter Miami to move into the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup.
Who were Messi’s former teammates mentioned in the text?
The text mentions Sergio Busquets as Messi’s former teammate from Barcelona.
How did Messi’s teammate Robert Taylor describe playing with him?
Robert Taylor described playing with Messi as a dream come true. He praised Messi’s skills, decision-making, and contribution to the team’s quality.
Where did Messi play before joining Inter Miami?
Before joining Inter Miami, Messi was a part of Paris St-Germain, a French club.
More about Lionel Messi’s debut at Inter Miami
- Lionel Messi’s Profile
- Inter Miami’s Official Website
- Major League Soccer (MLS)
- Details on Leagues Cup
- Information on Paris St-Germain
- Details about Atlanta United FC
- Profile of Robert Taylor
- Sergio Busquets’ Profile
- Information about David Beckham
- Details about DRV PNK Stadium
8 comments
It’s great to see Messi and Busquets back together, they had such a great understanding at Barca. Miss those days…
Messi is a game changer! The standing ovation he received was well deserved. What a legend!
Just watched the game, Messi was on fire!! Two goals and an assist on his first start, thats why hes the GOAT. Inter Miami is so lucky to have him!
This is great for the MLS, having a player like Messi is definitely going to attract more fans and increase the level of the league. Great game! Can’t wait for the next one.
Robert Taylor with a goal and an assist too! let’s not forget his contribution. Messi-Taylor duo is fire!
Paris St-Germain should’ve done everything to keep Messi. His impact is clear. Well, Inter Miami’s gain I suppose.
Watching Messi play in DRV PNK Stadium is a dream come true for any soccer fan. We’re so lucky to have him here. Cant wait for the next game! Go Inter Miami!
Messi is just..the best. Even at 36, he is outperforming everyone else on the pitch. Never seen a player like him in my lifetime.