In a scorching Texas heat, Lionel Messi showcased his free-kick prowess once again, leaving fans in awe of his talent. Playing for Inter Miami, Messi scored a mesmerizing goal in the 85th minute, securing a 4-4 tie against FC Dallas in a thrilling Leagues Cup elimination game. This goal mirrored his debut performance for Inter Miami, where he also scored a game-winner from a free kick just outside the penalty box. Both times, the ball gracefully evaded the goalkeeper and found its way into the upper corner of the net.
FC Dallas coach Nico Estévez acknowledged Messi’s exceptional skills, stating that a free kick in Messi’s range is like a penalty kick for any other player. Estévez expressed the need to hope for the ball to go out of bounds or for Messi to stumble during the run-up. However, Messi’s proficiency in free-kicks remains undeniable.
The victory against FC Dallas propelled Inter Miami into the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup, where they will face the winner of the match between Charlotte FC and Houston. Prior to this, Messi had already scored two goals in another Leagues Cup game against Orlando City, leading Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory. The Florida match was delayed due to heavy rain, further highlighting Messi’s adaptability to different conditions.
Playing in scorching temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), both teams took a heat break during each half. Despite the challenging environment, Messi continued to shine, scoring his first goal outside of Florida for his new U.S. club. This left-footed strike from outside the penalty area came in the sixth minute, assisted by his former FC Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba. Initially disallowed for offside, the goal was later overturned on review.
Messi has been an outstanding addition to Inter Miami, scoring in all four matches and contributing to the team’s 4-0 record in the Leagues Cup. Prior to Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami had struggled, going winless in nine consecutive MLS matches. The Argentine star’s impact on the team’s performance has been remarkable.
Following the 4-4 tie, the game was decided by penalty kicks. Messi calmly converted his penalty into the right corner, while Paxton Pomykal missed over the crossbar, ultimately securing the victory for Inter Miami with a 5-3 shootout score. Benjamin Cremaschi, who had previously scored a crucial goal in the 65th minute, sealed the win for Inter Miami.
Despite FC Dallas briefly taking the lead with Robert Taylor’s own goal, Inter Miami quickly equalized with an own goal of their own. Marco Farfan’s header into his own net off a free kick from Messi brought the teams level. The turning point came when Taylor was fouled, allowing Messi to score yet another remarkable free kick. The crowd of 19,096 erupted in celebration, including Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, who witnessed the spectacle.
FC Dallas put up a fierce fight, with Facundo Quignon and Bernard Kamungo scoring in the first half to erase Messi’s early goal. Alan Velasco, a young Argentine player who idolizes Messi, added to the scoreline with a bouncing free kick in the 63rd minute. Velasco expressed his joy at finally being able to share the field with his idol.
Despite the loss, FC Dallas coach Nico Estévez acknowledged the positive impact Messi’s presence has had on his team. He believes facing Messi’s level of skill pushes his players to improve and raise their performance.
Overall, Messi’s exceptional performance and goal-scoring ability continue to impress, making him an invaluable asset to Inter Miami. As the team progresses in the Leagues Cup, the influence of Messi’s presence will undoubtedly contribute to their development and success.
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