2x FIFA Champ Mia Hamm reflects on Messi Mania in the US
Mia Hamm, a two-time FIFA champion, shares her thoughts on the undeniable impact Lionel Messi has made in America. In an article by Sports Seriously on USA TODAY, it is revealed that Messi’s first season with MLS club Inter Miami has come to an end on a quieter note. Despite having a goal negated and a free kick deflected off the crossbar during the last match against Charlotte FC, Messi remained competitive and engaged throughout the game. However, since Inter Miami had already been eliminated from the postseason, he could have chosen to preserve his health after recovering from an earlier injury in September. Instead, he opted to finish the season with the team.
This match against Charlotte FC was significant for Messi in a few ways. It was the first time he played on turf instead of natural grass in the MLS. Additionally, the club used this game as an opportunity to evaluate their lineup and prepare for the upcoming offseason, which includes a trip to China for friendlies and some roster rebuilding. Messi is set to play matches against Qingdao Hainiu F.C. and Chengdu Rongcheng in China before returning to the Argentine team for fixtures against Uruguay and Brazil in November.
Even though Inter Miami had a season of ups and downs, Messi’s presence on the team has left a lasting impact. He scored 11 goals and assisted in five more in his 14 appearances for the club, making him a star player in the MLS. His Inter Miami jerseys became top sellers, and Apple TV benefited from broadcasting the team’s matches. Despite not achieving the results they had hoped for, winning the Leagues Cup tournament in August was a highlight for the club.
During the match against Charlotte FC, Messi had several opportunities to score. A deflected free kick hit the crossbar, and he had another attempt blocked by a defender. He also had a pass to him that was just out of reach but managed to set up a shot for another player. Despite his efforts, Inter Miami was not able to secure a victory.
While Messi’s role in the match against Charlotte FC was uncertain, he started the game wearing Inter Miami’s black “La Noche” jersey. This was a departure from the pink jerseys, known as the Heartbeat Kit, that the team had been wearing since Messi’s arrival. The anticipation for Messi’s performance in this new jersey was high among his fans.
In addition to Messi’s presence, the MLS playoff picture was taking shape with several teams fighting for the remaining spots. The Eastern Conference saw CF Montréal, New York Red Bulls, Chicago Fire FC, Charlotte FC, and New York City FC vying for a place in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Western Conference had the Portland Timbers, FC Dallas, San Jose Earthquakes, Sporting Kansas City, and Minnesota United FC competing for the remaining spots.
Overall, while Messi’s first season with Inter Miami may have ended quietly, it was undoubtedly a success. His impact on and off the field has garnered attention and support from fans, making him a major player in the MLS.
It is uncertain how much playing time Messi will receive in the match against Charlotte FC, but he has expressed his intention to play. After his recent performance where he scored two goals against Peru in a World Cup qualifying match, Messi affirmed his commitment to continue playing. Inter Miami’s coaching staff has stated that they will evaluate his condition and make a decision on his playing time accordingly.
This match against Charlotte FC is also significant because it will be Messi’s first time playing on artificial turf in the MLS. During a press conference in August, Messi mentioned that he had no problem adapting to turf, as he had played on it during his earlier years. This game will provide an opportunity for him to showcase his adaptability and skills in a new environment.
While Messi’s season with Inter Miami may have ended, his impact and popularity in the US continue to grow. His presence has boosted sales of Inter Miami jerseys and has attracted viewers to MLS matches. As one of the greatest football players of all time, Messi’s influence is undeniable in the world of soccer.
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