Lionel Messi marks MLS debut with goal as Inter Miami defeat New York Red Bulls 2-0

Lionel Messi continued his hot streak for Inter Miami as he came off the bench on his MLS debut and scored in a 2-0 win over New York Red Bulls on August 26.

The match took place at the Red Bull Arena, which was packed with eager fans, many of whom were donning Messi jerseys from various stages of his illustrious career. The atmosphere was electric, with chants of “We Want Messi!” echoing through the stadium from as early as the sixth minute as the Argentine maestro started from the bench.

Messi entered the field in the 60th minute, replacing one of the four Miami starters making their MLS debuts that night. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously been watching the first half from coach Tata Martino’s bench.

At this point, Miami was leading 1-0, thanks to a 37th-minute goal by Diego G³mez. The Argentine superstar didn’t disappoint. In the 89th minute, Messi scored a dazzling goal, dribbling past three defenders and side-footing the ball to Benjamin Cremaschi. The young American returned the ball, and Messi sprinted towards the goal, letting the ball bounce off his left foot and into the net.

This late goal sealed a 2-0 victory for Inter Miami, ending their 11-match league winless streak. Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has been in scintillating form.

He has scored 11 goals in all competitions for the club, including his debut goal against the Red Bulls. Additionally, he has provided three assists, contributing significantly to the team’s success.

His performances have helped Inter Miami secure a perfect record in the Leagues Cup, where he scored 10 goals in seven games, and reach the U.S. Open Cup final. The win on Saturday also helped Inter Miami move off the foot of the Eastern Conference table, pushing Toronto FC into the spot.