Lionel Messi scored the winning goal from a free kick in the 94th minute as Inter Miami defeated Cruz Azul 2-1 in the Leagues Cup opener.
Inter Miami struggled throughout the first half but netted the lead just minutes before the halftime whistle.
Finnish winger Robert Taylor scored to give Miami the lead, followed by a surprising equalizer from Uriel Antuna before Messi finally secured the 2-1 victory with an impressive free-kick.
The match in details
The Leagues Cup’s third edition kicks off with a match between Cruz Azul, a team from Liga MX, and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami on Friday night, July 21.
Cruz Azul have had several excellent opportunities to begin the game strongly putting Inter Miami to the test twice with two intense shots.
Miami finally got their act together as Leo Campana breaks free in the 9th minute, but unfortunately, his shot was saved.
In the first 10 minutes, Cruz Azul demonstrated their superiority on the pitch. They consistently pose a significant threat to their opponents, although unfortunately, all of their opportunities hit the post.
Meanwhile, adding the undeniable magic of Messi in the game would provide a momentary boost as Miami’s midfield is desperately in need of a player who can retain possession and dictate the game.
The match did not begin with the two former Barcelona players, Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi as they both observed the game from the bench.
Miami have managed to slow down the opposition’s headway, but Cruz Azul are still consistently creating more favorable opportunities.
The two teams have performed admirably by reaching the 20-minute mark without conceding any goals.
In the 44th minute, Miami broke the deadlock with an impressive goal from winger Robert Taylor.
Miami was fortunate and managed to go into the break ahead, although it seemed unlikely.
When the second half was underway, all eyes were fixed on Lionel Messi as he warmed up.
Lionel Messi eventually filled the stadium with excitement from the crowd as he strolls onto the pitch for his debut in the 53rd minute.
The Argentine star who has won the Ballon d’Or seven times immediately took the captain’s armband as he came in.
Messi quickly takes control of the ball and showcases his skill, smoothly exchanging passes before unfortunately losing possession.
Meanwhile, Busquets has seamlessly transitioned into the midfield position, and interestingly enough, Miami’s overall performance is noticeably transformed.
Every time Messi touches the ball, the crowd gasps in anticipation, knowing that they will witness something extraordinary.
However, Cruz Azul silenced the crowd who were chanting for the Argentine maestro.
In the 65th minute, Mexican international Uriel Antuna stunned the crowd with a remarkable equalizer with a powerful finish.
Messi swiftly initiates a counterattack, passing the ball to DeAndre Yedlin to revive Miami’s chances. However, Cruz Azul effectively neutralized the threat.
Messi had his first opportunity in the 71st minute, but unfortunately, his shot was blocked. As he prepared to strike, he positioned his left foot, but the Cruz Azul defense was one step ahead.
There was a great link between Busquets and Messi, but unfortunately, Messi’s shot in the 73rd minute was blocked too.
However, Inter Miami increased the pressure as Messi and Busquets initiated numerous attacks.
Both players are having a significant impact despite their limited time on the pitch.
Only eight minutes were remaining in normal time when an impressive connection occurred between two former Barcelona stars, Messi and Busquets.
The Spaniard delivered another impressive pass, and Messi came close to taking a shot before being blocked by a defender.
Messi has been exceptional since he came on the pitch. Whenever he touches the ball, the crowd senses that something remarkable is about to occur.
Lionel Messi delivered a thrilling victory on his Inter Miami debut by scoring a last-minute free-kick.
Without a doubt, the Argentine player finally managed to make his fans go home happy after scoring a free kick that was awarded to Miami in the 90+ minute.
The free-kick was in Messi’s territory, making it likely to be the final kick of regular time.
Lionel Messi, renowned for his exceptional skills, scored a magnificent last-minute goal with his left foot, curling the ball into the top corner to secure a 2-1 victory.
Lionel Messi set more records on his debut
Inter Miami started their League Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul thanks to Messi who ended their winless run.
It is worth noting that Messi has achieved a Guinness record as the first player to score a free-kick goal in his debut season.
In addition, the 2022 World Cup hero has recently reached a milestone of scoring 700 goals in his career, excluding penalty kicks, being the only player to reach this landmark.
David Beckham’s emotional moment following Messi’s free-kick.
Inter Miami part-owner David Beckham is known for his ability to score dramatic free-kick goals.
He likely witnessed a revision of the phrase that he made famous and couldn’t help but shed tears when Messi scored the amazing free-kick.
Beckham said: “To be honest, as soon as I saw the free kick given, I thought this is the way it’s meant to end.”
“It’s such a moment for this country.”
After the game, Lionel Messi addressed the press.
Messi revealed that getting off to a winning start was his aim.
He said: “Our intention was, to begin with a victory as a tribute to the fans in attendance.”
“I had one final opportunity to attempt a score, and fortunately, it was successful.”
