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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 21 (UPI) — Lionel Messi gracefully curled the ball around a wall of defenders into the top left corner of the net in stoppage time, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Inter Miami over Cruz Azul in his debut match.
“It’s a scene we’ve witnessed before,” said Inter Miami manager Tata Martino at the press conference following the game.
Messi’s 94th-minute free kick from about 25 yards out amazed the crowd of over 22,000 at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., including celebrities like LeBron James and Serena Williams.
The match was part of the Leagues Cup tournament, which features teams from MLS and the Mexican Liga MX but doesn’t count toward league standings.
Although Messi didn’t step onto the field until the 54th minute, the crowd chanted his name with great enthusiasm.
Inter Miami took the lead just before halftime with a right-footed shot from striker Robert Taylor. Taylor received a cross from Robbie Robinson, created space by pushing the ball to his right, and then calmly fired it into the net.
Cruz Azul equalized in the 65th minute through winger Uriel Antuna’s shot, assisted by midfielder Jesus Duenas.
The game seemed destined for penalties until Messi won a free kick in stoppage time and expertly bent the ball into the corner of the net.
This victory ended a six-game winless streak for Inter Miami, who currently have the worst record in MLS.
Inter Miami will face Atlanta United in another Leagues Cup game at DRV PNK Stadium on Tuesday.
