Lionel Messi’s MLS debut marked by thrilling game-winning goal

Lionel Messi, undoubtedly one of the greatest soccer players of all time, showcased his dramatic flair in his debut for Major League Soccer. The Argentine superstar delivered a game-winning goal in extra time, leading Inter Miami to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul in the League’s Cup.

Initially starting the game on the bench, Messi entered the field in the 53rd minute to a thunderous ovation from the crowd. Notable celebrities including LeBron James, Kim Kardashian, and Serena Williams were among those in attendance.

Entering the game with a 1-0 lead, Cruz Azul managed to equalize. Yet, Messi had other plans, and he wanted to entertain the fans. In the 94th minute, he exhibited his legendary left foot skills by floating a free kick shot over a defensive wall, finding the top-left corner of the net for the winning goal.

As Messi’s decision to join MLS sparked immense excitement, ticket prices for Inter Miami games skyrocketed. According to TicketIQ, his signing alone added a staggering $10,671,923 in secondary market ticket value for home games and a remarkable $24,407,578 for away games. This overwhelming demand has even prompted discussions of potentially hosting some matches at Hard Rock Stadium, the home of the Miami Dolphins. For now, additional seating has been added to DRV PNK Stadium, increasing capacity by 3,000 seats to accommodate approximately 21,000 fans.

Despite the smaller venue compared to his previous home stadium, Camp Nou, where he attained international stardom, Messi remains enthusiastic about his move to MLS. He expressed his desire to experience a different style of football and enjoy the day-to-day aspects of the game in a more relaxed manner.

At the age of 36, Messi continues to perform at an elite level. During the 2022-2023 season in France’s Ligue 1, he scored an impressive 16 goals and provided 16 assists for Paris Saint-Germain. Additionally, he recently achieved the ultimate success by winning the World Cup with Argentina, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers in history.

Messi’s journey in MLS is set to continue until the end of the 2025 season, ensuring fans in South Florida have the privilege of witnessing his extraordinary skills for years to come.

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