Lionel Messi continues to showcase his goal-scoring prowess while Inter Miami continues to dominate their matches. In the recent Leagues Cup semi-final against the Philadelphia Union, Messi scored an incredible goal from 30 yards out in the 20th minute. Miami emerged victorious with a 4-1 win.
The crowd witnessed Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, score his ninth goal in just six matches since joining the team. The excitement was palpable, with ticket prices soaring above $1,000 on the resale market. This match garnered more worldwide attention for the Union than any other game in their history.
Even the Union had few complaints about the outcome. Fans, including many Union supporters, erupted with joy when Messi was introduced and celebrated wildly when he scored past Andre Blake. Messi’s celebration included running with his arms extended and punching his fist in the air while leaping.
The goals scored by Jordi Alba, Josef Martínez, and David Ruiz were also noteworthy in the first and second halves of the game. As a result of their impressive performance, Miami secured a spot in the Leagues Cup final against either Nashville or Mexican club Monterrey. This competition brings together teams from MLS and Liga MX.
Alejandro Bedoya managed to score a goal for Philadelphia in the second half, but it was not enough to secure a victory.
Union principal owner Jay Sugarman revealed that there was no real consideration given to moving the game from Subaru Park to Lincoln Financial Field. Despite the potential for an additional 40,000-plus fans at the NFL stadium, Sugarman stated that Union coach Jim Curtin insisted on keeping the game at its original location. According to Sugarman, winning trophies is their priority, and Curtin’s decision was respected.
The demand for tickets was overwhelming, with the game selling out in less than 10 minutes. Ticket prices skyrocketed on the secondary market, with prices for River End seats reaching over $1,000. The average resale price of $556 set a new record for the Union.
Outside the stadium, Messi Mania was in full swing. Angel Pagan and her family, who are Union season-ticket holders from Vineland, New Jersey, proudly wore Messi shirts. They even named their youngest son Lionel after the legendary player. Despite the high cost, Pagan upgraded their tickets to get closer to the field, emphasizing that it was worth every penny because it was Messi.
Under the guidance of coach Curtin, the Union has shown remarkable growth and became one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. In 2020, they clinched their first Supporters’ Shield trophy, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record in MLS. However, Messi’s arrival has added a new level of complexity to the league and the championship race.
Jay Sugarman acknowledged the incredible impact of Messi’s presence, stating that he is the match that could ignite further interest and growth in the league.
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