Lionel Messi made a sensational MLS debut by scoring a spectacular goal.
On Saturday evening, Lionel Messi made his first appearance in the MLS and immediately left an impression by netting a remarkable goal.
Despite his exceptional performances since joining Inter Miami, there were uncertainties about his inclusion in the starting lineup against New York Red Bulls due to a congested fixture schedule.
Manager Gerardo Martino decided to provide Messi, along with Sergio Busquets, some rest and placed the 36-year-old Argentine on the bench at Red Bull Arena.
However, this decision was met with disapproval from the fans present in the stadium, who had paid a substantial amount to witness his league debut. Chants of ‘we want Messi!’ echoed throughout the arena within the first five minutes of the game.
Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami, on an eight-game winning streak, took the lead in the 37th minute through Diego Gomez.
However, they couldn’t extend their advantage. With 30 minutes remaining, Messi, Busquets, and former Newcastle United player DeAndre Yedlin were brought into the game.
Messi’s first touch didn’t go as planned; his attempt to pass to a teammate on the left was intercepted by Red Bulls defender Andres Reyes.
However, the Barcelona icon swiftly regained his momentum and secured the victory in the 89th minute with an absolutely breathtaking goal.
A swiftly played ball was delivered to Jordi Alba on the left flank, who executed a skillful acrobatic touch to locate Messi within the penalty area.
In an incredible display of skill, the Argentine maestro then orchestrated a remarkable through ball to Benjamin Cremaschi. Demonstrating superb awareness, Cremaschi assessed his options and accurately found Messi positioned inside the box, allowing the Argentine to effortlessly tap the ball into the net from close range.
VIDEO: Lionel Messi’s stunning goal on MLS debut
Messi –> Cremaschi –> MESSI
OUT. OF. THIS. WORLD. pic.twitter.com/NzBKniNExm
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 27, 2023
The goal looks even better in slow-motion. Watch it below…
El 🔟 en slow-motion 🤌 pic.twitter.com/anXPrX9Ne7
— MLS Español (@MLSes) August 27, 2023
The final whistle sounded shortly after to confirm Inter Miami’s 2-0 victory. It was their first victory in MLS since May 14, snapping a 12-game winless streak.