Lionel Messi Inter Miami Debut: A Free-Kick Masterclass

Lionel Messi made a sensational start to his Inter Miami career, scoring a stunning free-kick in the dying moments of his debut against Cruz Azul. 

The Argentinian superstar, who joined David Beckham’s MLS side after winning the World Cup with his country, delighted the star-studded crowd at DRV PNK Stadium with his magic.

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How Lionel Messi scored the winner in front of LeBron James, Serena Williams and more

Messi came off the bench in the 54th minute to a huge ovation from the fans, who were wearing ‘Messi 10’ shirts and chanting his name.

He took the captain’s armband and joined his former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who also signed for Inter Miami in the summer.

The game was tied at 1-1 after Robert Taylor’s brilliant opener for Miami was cancelled out by Uriel Antuna for Cruz Azul. The Mexican side had chances to win it, but Messi had other ideas.

In the 93rd minute, he won a free-kick 25 yards from goal and curled it into the top corner with his left foot, sending the stadium into ecstasy.

Fireworks lit up the sky as Messi celebrated with his teammates and the fans.

It was a fitting end to a night that attracted celebrities like LeBron James, Serena Williams, Kim Kardashian and David Beckham, who watched from a box next to the dugout.

LaBron James along with Serena Williams recorded Messi on their phones as he prepares to make his Inter Miami debut

Messi said he saw the goal before he took the free-kick and wanted to score to avoid penalties.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino, who managed Messi at Barcelona, said it was a movie he had seen before.

Why Messi’s debut was historic for MLS and North American soccer

Messi’s debut for Inter Miami was one of the most anticipated events in MLS history. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and World Cup champion is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, and his arrival in North America is a huge boost for the league and the sport.

Messi’s debut came 48 years after Pele’s debut for New York Cosmos and 16 years after Beckham’s debut for LA Galaxy, two other landmark moments for soccer in the US.

Lionel Messi’s debut also coincided with the Leagues Cup final, a tournament that pits MLS teams against Liga MX teams.

The Leagues Cup is part of a broader effort to increase collaboration and competition between the two leagues, which are both aiming to grow their fan bases and revenues.

Lionel Messi’s presence adds more prestige and excitement to the tournament, which Inter Miami won with his free-kick.

Messi’s debut also showcased the quality and diversity of MLS, which has attracted players from all over the world. Inter Miami’s starting lineup featured players from nine different countries, including Finland, Venezuela, Scotland and Argentina.

What’s next for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami?

Messi’s debut was a dream come true for Inter Miami fans, who have endured a difficult season so far.

The team is currently bottom of the Eastern Conference, with only four wins in 21 games. They have also faced sanctions from MLS for violating roster rules.

However, Messi’s arrival could spark a turnaround for the team, which still has 13 games left to play in the regular season.

Messi said he is happy to be in Miami and wants to help the team improve.

Inter Miami will hope that Messi can replicate his form from last season, when he scored 38 goals in 47 games for Paris St-Germain and Argentina.

He will also look to build chemistry with his new teammates, especially Busquets and Alba, who he played with for many years at Barcelona.

Inter Miami’s next game is against New York Red Bulls on Saturday, August 21. It will be another opportunity for Messi to dazzle the fans and show why he is one of the best players in the world.