Lionel Messi, Sergi Busquets, and Jordi Alba combined to help Inter Miami secure their second goal as the Florida team defeated the MLS champions, Los Angeles, with a 3-1 victory at the BMO Stadium.
Facundo Farias, Alba, and Leonardo Campana all found the back of the net, countering Ryan Hollingshead’s effort for the hosts.
This triumph against last season’s MLS Cup champions has brought Inter Miami within nine points of a playoff spot, with nine games left in the season.
Since Messi made his debut on July 22, Inter Miami has claimed the Leagues Cup title and maintained an unbeaten record in their 11 matches.
The 36-year-old, a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, has contributed 11 goals and provided five assists in his 11 appearances for Inter Miami since his move from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
Messi played a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s statement victory on Sunday night, contributing two assists to the cause.
In particular, Inter Miami’s second goal during the match has gained widespread attention for its remarkable link-up play involving former Barcelona stalwarts Busquets, Messi, and Alba.
The sequence began with Busquets collecting the ball in midfield and threading a precise pass through the opposition lines to reach Messi.
The Argentine maestro, finding himself in ample space, delivered a through ball behind the Los Angeles defense, perfectly timed for the advancing Alba. In a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper, Alba calmly slotted the ball into the net, sealing a memorable goal.
BUSQUETS ➡️ MESSI ➡️ ALBA.
JUST LIKE OLD TIMES 🔥
(via @mls)pic.twitter.com/k3cSPPctLu— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) September 4, 2023
Certainly, the trio of Messi, Busquets, and Alba were integral members of the highly successful Barcelona side that achieved the Treble in 2015.
Their presence in Major League Soccer (MLS) has generated significant interest, even drawing the attention of Hollywood celebrities.
During Sunday’s match, Prince Harry had the opportunity to witness the former Barcelona forward, Messi, in action.
Additionally, a list of notable attendees included Hollywood actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Ferrell, Tom Holland, Tobey Maguire, Owen Wilson, and Gerard Butler.
Not to be left out, several musicians also graced the 22,000-seater stadium with their presence, including Liam Gallagher, Selena Gomez, Tyga, BReal, and Nas.