Lionel Messi continued to showcase his intensity and goal-scoring prowess even into injury time during Inter Miami’s latest Leagues Cup match against Orlando City.
Since officially joining the MLS franchise, the 36-year-old has wasted no time in making an impact, scoring an impressive five goals in his first three games for the team.
In Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Orlando City, Messi added two more goals to his tally.
His first goal came inside seven minutes of the match, demonstrating his trademark late runs into the box. Messi connected with Robert Taylor’s cross, expertly controlling the ball with his chest before volleying it into the corner of the net.
These goals not only showcased Messi’s incredible goal-scoring ability but also highlighted his remarkable footballing intelligence and understanding with his teammates.
As one of the world’s greatest footballers, Messi’s performances have lived up to expectations, bringing excitement and joy to Inter Miami fans and leaving no doubt that he is a formidable force in the MLS.
His second strike, to make it 3-1, came in similar style, as he once again chested the ball – this time at the near post – before firing it in.
Lionel Messi can’t stop scoring for Inter Miami 🤯#Messi brings down Robert Taylor’s pass with his chest before volleying home the goal from six yards out.
🎥 @InterMiamiCF pic.twitter.com/0OJZCM0lIL
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 3, 2023
But was notable was Messi’s pressing throughout the game – and it even continued into injury time, when Inter Miami were two goals ahead.
Messi ‘presses like a madman’ in 92nd minute
With Orlando preparing to take a short goal kick in the 92nd minute, Messi was alert to an opportunity to win the ball back.
The 36-year-old was spotted on camera charging towards the central defender to block off one passing lane and limit Orlando’s opportunities to move the ball forward.
Messi’s movement prevented the defender playing a pass directly forward to his team-mate, and he passed across to his fellow centre-back instead.
You can see the clip below.
90th minute and Leo Messi is pressing and still showing so much passion. There was definitely something wrong in Paris. #InterMiamiCF pic.twitter.com/urQTg83Hx0
— PSG Chief (@psg_chief) August 3, 2023
Lionel Messi’s commitment to helping Inter Miami succeed is evident in the footage, especially considering the team’s challenging situation in this season’s MLS.
As of now, Inter Miami holds the worst record among all 26 teams in the league, placing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference table.
To address their struggles, the franchise made significant changes during the mid-season break, including the sacking of former Manchester United and Everton defender Phil Neville as the head coach.
In his place, Messi’s former Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino has taken charge.
Martino previously managed another MLS franchise, Atlanta United, between 2016 and 2018, where he earned the Coach of the Year title in his final season. His experience and expertise make him a strong candidate to lead Inter Miami to success.
With the addition of Messi, along with Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, the team’s prospects have undoubtedly improved.
The combination of their skills and Martino’s coaching acumen gives Inter Miami a strong chance to turn their fortunes around and achieve success in the MLS.
Messi’s commitment and determination to make a positive impact on his new team further enhance their chances of climbing up the league standings and competing at a higher level.