Argentine legend Lionel Messi had quite an unforgettable moment in his debut for Inter Miami on Friday, July 21, as he scored a late winner for the MLS side.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner scored a free-kick from about 25 yards in the 94th minute, giving Inter Miami a 2-1 win over Mexican club Cruz Azul on Friday night in the Leagues Cup.
36-year-old Messi joined Miami on a free transfer earlier this month after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, and made his much-anticipated debut in Miami’s first match of the 2023 tournament held between MLS and Liga MX sides.
Messi and fellow new signing Sergio Busquets were brought on in the 54th minute to a raucous atmosphere, after Robert Taylor gave the MLS side the lead in the first half.
Ten minutes after they were brought on, Uriel Antuna equalized for Cruz Azul.
There was however a twist in the 95th minute after Inter Miami were awarded a free-kick in prime Messi territory.
Messi who was composed before taking the free-kick, bent an unstoppable shot over the wall and into the corner, leaving Andres Gudino helpless in the opposing goal.
The goal sent a sold-out crowd that included the NBA’s LeBron James, tennis’ Serena Williams, and media personality Kim Kardashian into celebration. It also gave Inter Miami their first win in any match since May 23rd.
Speaking to ESPN after scoring on his debut for Inter Miami, Messi said;
“I knew it was the last chance. I just tried like always do and fortunately the goalkeeper couldn’t get the ball.
“It is important for this team to get wins because we are not in a good position in the league. I know this is another tournament, but it will help our morale.”
LIONEL ANDRÉS MESSI IS NOT HUMAN. pic.twitter.com/2mBDI41mLy
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 22, 2023
Inter Miami’s co-owner David Beckham also had a broad grin at the final whistle. He told reporters;
“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.
“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.”