The highly anticipated Inter Miami debut of Lionel Messi turned into a fairytale as the legendary Argentine scored a stunning last-gasp free-kick winner against Cruz Azul in a 2-1 victory, News About Nigeria reports.
The packed DRV PNK Stadium in Florida witnessed Messi’s magical touch, making it a night to remember for the club’s supporters.
The match was filled with excitement and tension as Robert Taylor opened the scoring with an impressive goal for Inter Miami, only to be canceled out by Uriel Antuna’s equalizer for Cruz Azul in the second half.
With time ticking away and the score level, all eyes were on the Argentine superstar to deliver something special.
In the dying moments of stoppage time, Messi stepped up to take a crucial free-kick. With nerves of steel, he curled the ball perfectly into the net, leaving the opposition goalkeeper no chance.
The stadium erupted in jubilation as Inter Miami secured a dramatic victory in the game.
In a post-match interview, Messi expressed his determination to score the decisive goal, stating, “I saw the goal. I knew that I had to score. It was the last play of the game, and I wanted to score, so I didn’t go to penalties.”
Inter Miami’s head coach, Tata Martino, who previously managed Messi at Barcelona, couldn’t hide his delight and remarked, “It’s a movie that we have seen before.”
The coach, along with fans and fellow players, knew they were witnessing a magical moment in football history.
The excitement surrounding Messi’s debut extended beyond the sport, attracting celebrities and sports icons like LeBron James, Serena Williams, and Kim Kardashian, all in attendance to witness the arrival of one of the greatest players of all time.
Inter Miami owner David Beckham, who played a pivotal role in bringing Messi to the MLS club, was elated to see the Argentine superstar light up the stadium with his brilliance.
