Lionel Messi’s extraordinary debut for Inter Miami in America saw him secure a thrilling 2-1 victory against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup. With the match tied at 1-1 in stoppage time, Messi’s expertly taken free-kick found the top corner, sending the stadium into wild celebrations.
The 20,000-strong crowd at DRV PNK Stadium witnessed a spectacle as exuberant fans rushed onto the field, and smoke bombs in Miami’s iconic pink filled the air, creating an electric atmosphere. Messi showcased his enduring brilliance, impressing with sharpness and alertness despite his recent vacation.
Teaming up with former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, Messi demonstrated their telepathic understanding as Busquets supplied precise passes to him. The victory earned Inter Miami three crucial points in the Leagues Cup group stage, sparking excitement and heightened expectations with Messi’s arrival in the MLS.
The highly anticipated debut was a star-studded affair with co-owner David Beckham, NBA legend LeBron James, celebrities like Kim Kardashian, and tennis icon Serena Williams in attendance. Miami took the lead through a fantastic strike from Robert Taylor, but Cruz Azul equalized before Messi’s magical game-winning moment, leaving Inter Miami fans in awe.