Lionel Messi scored a sublime free-kick on his debut for Inter Miami in the 2-1 win over Cruz Azul in the League Cup, Sportivationng.com reports.
Messi won a free-kick just outside the box in the 94th minute and he reminded many of his greatness with a sensational delivery to send the fans into a meltdown of excitement.
Messi came off the bench in the 54th minute for his debut since sealing a stunning move to the MLS.
It was a star-studded cast at the Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium with the likes of LeBron James, Tom Brady Serena Williams, Kim Kardashian watching from the stands.
Sport Legends, LeBron James, Serena Williams reacted to Lionel Messi’s Stunning Free-kick goal for Inter Miami.
Lebron James, Tom Brady, Serena Williams and even Kardashians in the crowd.
All to watch Messi.
Then he does this…
In added-time, to win the game.Greatest ever, nobody comes near.
— 𝑾𝒊𝒍𝒄𝒐🧣 (@WilcoFtbl) July 22, 2023
Messi was delighted to play a key role in handing Inter Miami a vital win after their poor start to the MLS season.
“We wanted to start like this by giving these people a victory,” said Messi.
“We knew that it was very important for us to start this championship in winning fashion and luckily we were able to do it in the end, and I am very happy,” he added.
Miami are yet to win in 11 matches in the MLS, their fans will be hoping that Messi’s arrival will spark a major revival in their fortunes.
“It is a huge joy to get this first victory after how we have done in the league,” he said. “It is important to start winning, beyond the fact that it is another championship, for confidence it is very good to get victories.”
Inter Miami’s co-owner David Beckham was also full of praise for Lionel Messi after the game.
“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,” said the former England midfielder.
“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,” he said.
Inter Miami’s owner Jorge Mas was stunned and emotional after Messi’s goal.
Reaction of club owner Jorge Mas and David Beckham family on Leo Messi's goal.🥹👏pic.twitter.com/TKRMXcyugm
— Albiceleste News 🏆 (@AlbicelesteNews) July 22, 2023
Up next for Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates is a clash against Atlanta United on Wednesday.
