In an exhilarating performance on Tuesday night at DRV PNK Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Lionel Messi made an unforgettable impact during his first start for Inter Miami CF in the MLS. Alongside former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, Messi showcased his brilliance, scoring two goals and providing an assist in a stunning 4-0 victory over Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup match.
The magic started early as Busquets lofted a perfectly placed ball over Atlanta’s defense, finding Lionel Messi in a dangerous position. Although Messi’s first attempt was denied, he expertly followed up with a rebound to give Miami the lead, putting them ahead 1-0 in just the eighth minute.
Not slowing down, Lionel Messi struck again in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a swift counterattack, and received a brilliant assist from Robert Taylor to double the lead to 2-0. Taylor himself later scored the team’s third goal, leading Miami to a commanding 3-0 advantage at halftime.
Messi continued to shine in the second half, combining well with his teammates and providing the assist for Taylor’s second goal, sealing Miami’s comprehensive 4-0 win. In the 78th minute, Messi left the field to a thunderous ovation from the home crowd, while Busquets departed six minutes earlier, making way for Victor Ulloa.
Miami manager Gerardo Martino expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “It was a good performance and I’m pleased we were able to make our fans happy. A very good game and we took another step in the right direction.”
Notably, Atlanta United became the 100th club that Messi has scored against, a testament to his incredible scoring prowess and versatility on the field.
The reunion of Messi and Busquets, who played together for 13 years at Barcelona, proved to be a seamless transition. Busquets spoke highly of his former teammate, saying, “So many years playing together, so it’s very easy to play with him. I’m so happy to be by his side.”
Martino, who previously managed both Messi and Busquets during his time at Barcelona, expressed his lack of surprise at their impressive connection for the opening goal, emphasizing their ability to create space and elevate the team’s performance.
The addition of Messi and Busquets has undeniably transformed the spirit within the Miami team. Right-back DeAndre Yedlin noted, “Their presence gives everybody more confidence. And I think also the teams that we’re playing against now have a bit of fear in their eyes. When those two are on the field, you know you’re in for a tough game.”
He expressed his desire for fans to stay until the end to support the entire team but understood the allure of witnessing a global star like Messi in action.
This match marked Martino’s first encounter against his former club, Barcelona, whom he led to the MLS Cup title in 2018. He also confirmed Messi as the team’s captain moving forward, recognizing the influence and support the football icon brings to the team.
The victory in the Leagues Cup secured Miami’s progression to the round of 32, where they will host a yet-to-be-determined opponent. Excitement is building as fans eagerly anticipate Messi’s official debut in an MLS game, set to take place at home against Charlotte on August 20.
The recent addition of another former Barcelona player, Jordi Alba, is sure to add even more excitement and depth to the team’s lineup as Inter Miami CF continues to strengthen its squad. However, the team did not include him in the squad list for the match against Atlanta.
Overall, Lionel Messi debut for Inter Miami was nothing short of magical, leaving fans in awe of his immense talent and setting the stage for an exciting season ahead for the club.
