Messi Inter Miami’s 2023 season heralded a new chapter in MLS history, with the Argentine superstar joining forces with fellow legends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. This significant move not only bolstered Inter Miami’s lineup but also infused the league with an unprecedented level of excitement and skill. Messi’s presence on the field was transformative, elevating Inter Miami’s gameplay and leading them to their first significant silverware – the Leagues Cup final victory against Nashville SC. This triumph marked Messi’s first trophy with the club, setting the tone for what would become a season of remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.
The Messi Jersey: A Symbol of Sporting Greatness
The Inter Miami jersey, once associated with struggles and inconsistency, took on a new significance with Messi’s arrival. The iconic pink and black stripes became a symbol of the team’s revival, and fans embraced the jersey with renewed enthusiasm.
Official MLS Store
Get your official Messi Inter Miami jersey at the MLS online store. Whether you’re looking for the authentic Black 2023 La Noche Authentic Jersey or its replica version, the MLS Store has you covered.
Messi #10 Inter Miami CF 22/23 Home Jersey
A Season of Unforgettable Goals
Lionel Messi’s debut in the MLS Leagues Cup was nothing short of spectacular. In his first competition with Inter Miami, he displayed his renowned goal-scoring prowess, netting 10 goals in 7 Leagues Cup games. These included several last-minute winners and equalizers that dramatically contributed to Inter Miami securing their first-ever trophy.
Messi’s MLS Debut: A Goal-Scoring Spectacle
Messi’s debut for Inter Miami was a showcase of his signature brilliance, epitomized in a pivotal moment that became instantly iconic. In a tense match against Cruz Azul, with the game locked in a stalemate, Messi stepped up to take a free-kick. The match was on the edge, with just two minutes of stoppage time added, but the drama unfolded at 93:48, a moment etched in soccer lore.
As the clock ticked beyond the allocated extra time, Messi, with his renowned composure and precision, unleashed a free-kick that was nothing short of magical. The ball arced over the wall, bending into the net, leaving the goalkeeper and spectators in a state of disbelief. This goal at the brink of the final whistle was not just a match-winner; it was a moment that defined the essence of Messi’s greatness.
Had Messi not scored, the game was poised to move into the uncertainty of penalty kicks. But in true Messi fashion, he ensured that the match concluded in the most dramatic and definitive manner possible. His late free-kick goal secured a 1-0 victory for Inter Miami, and in doing so, signaled the start of an extraordinary chapter in both his career and the club’s history.
This goal by Messi was more than just a match-winner; it was a statement of intent, a promise of the extraordinary journey to come with Inter Miami. Beckham’s reaction underscored the weight of this moment, symbolizing a turning point for the club and a new era in MLS, heralded by one of the greatest players of all time.
Messi Inter Miami: The First Brace in 14 Minutes
Lionel Messi’s sensational start at Inter Miami continued as he faced Atlanta United, where his right foot became the star of the show. In just the 8th minute, thanks to a gorgeous assist from Sergio Busquets, Messi unleashed his right foot to drive the ball home, demonstrating his adeptness with both feet.
His brilliance didn’t stop there; he doubled his tally with another right-footed goal before the 22nd-minute mark, steering his team towards a dominant 4-0 victory. In addition to his goal-scoring heroics, Messi also showcased his vision and playmaking skills, delivering his first assist for Inter Miami. This performance not only emphasized his scoring prowess but also highlighted his versatility and strategic playmaking abilities.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 2 games / 3 goals / 1 assist
Messi’s Artistry Overwhelms Orlando City
Lionel Messi’s masterful performance against Orlando City in the Leagues Cup showcased his exceptional goal-scoring talent. The first goal, struck in the 7th minute, was a display of pure brilliance – a stunning volley that left the crowd in awe. Demonstrating his versatile skill set, Messi perfectly timed his strike, sending the ball sailing into the net with precision and flair.
His scoring prowess continued into the second half, with a perfectly executed one-timer in the 72nd minute, once again showcasing his remarkable ability with his right foot. These two goals, a combination of finesse and power, were instrumental in guiding Messi’s Inter Miami to a resounding 3-1 victory, underlining Messi’s critical role in the team’s success.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 3 games / 5 goals / 1 assist
Messi Inter Miami’s Signature Symphony Strikes in Dallas Duel
Lionel Messi’s remarkable journey with Inter Miami added another chapter in the thrilling face-off against FC Dallas. The match began with a classic Alba-Messi collaboration in the 6th minute. Alba, eschewing the traditional cross, intelligently played the ball back to Messi, who was poised outside the area. This Messi Inter Miami goal was a testament to their time-honored partnership from Barcelona, bringing their signature style to MLS with flawless execution.
The second half saw Inter Miami trailing, but the team’s resilience shone through. Alba’s assist to Cremaschi reduced the deficit before Messi’s strategically taken free-kick resulted in an own goal, igniting a comeback. Then, in a critical moment at the 85th minute, Messi Inter Miami’s hopes were revived by another masterstroke from the Argentine. His skillfully executed free-kick equalized the score at 4:4, demonstrating his unmatched prowess in high-pressure situations.
In the nail-biting penalty shootout, Messi’s composure was on full display. His successful penalty shot was crucial in sealing Inter Miami’s victory, underscoring his vital role in what was a dramatic and memorable match for Messi Inter Miami.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 4 games / 7 goals / 1 assist
Decisive Impact in Quarterfinal Victory of Messi’s Inter Miami
In the quarter-final against Charlotte FC, Lionel Messi’s influence was once again pivotal for Inter Miami. He continued his remarkable goal-scoring run with a late goal, demonstrating his knack for finding the net in key moments. This Messi Inter Miami goal was a critical component of the team’s comprehensive 4-0 triumph.
Beyond his scoring, Messi’s playmaking abilities shone through as well; he masterfully set up the third goal with a decisive pass that tore through the opposition’s defense. His combined efforts as a scorer and a creator underlined his invaluable impact in this crucial match, reinforcing his role as a cornerstone of the success of Messi’s Inter Miami.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 5 games / 8 goals / 1 assist
Messi’s 2nd Longest Career Goal Elevates Inter Miami in Semi-Final
In the semi-final clash against Philadelphia Union, Lionel Messi’s extraordinary talent was on full display, contributing significantly to Messi Inter Miami’s journey. Notably, this Messi Inter Miami goal was more than just a crucial element in the team’s 4-1 victory; it marked a milestone in Messi’s illustrious career. Striking from a staggering distance of 33.23 meters (about 36.34 yards), as per StatsPerform, this goal stands as the 2nd longest of his career, encompassing his time both at Inter Miami and previously.
The sheer brilliance and precision of this long-range effort underlined Messi’s exceptional abilities and his crucial role in leading Inter Miami to the finals against Nashville SC. This remarkable goal not only secured a significant win but also added a historic moment to Messi’s ever-growing list of soccer achievements.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 6 games / 9 goals / 1 assist
Messi’s Exquisite Strike Sets the Stage for Inter Miami’s Triumph
In the Leagues Cup final, Lionel Messi elevated his game to astonishing heights, especially with his opening goal for Messi against Nashville SC. Not just any goal, this Messi Inter Miami strike in the 24th minute was arguably his finest non-free-kick goal since joining the club. Executed from outside the penalty area, it showcased Messi’s incredible ability to find the net from long range. This remarkable goal was instrumental in leading Messi Inter Miami towards a thrilling victory on penalties, culminating in Messi’s first trophy with the team.
The finesse and precision of this effort not only underscored Messi’s vital contribution to the match but also highlighted his exceptional skill in delivering when it matters most, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in Inter Miami’s history. In the penalty shootout, Messi once again displayed his unwavering composure, scoring his penalty with precision and no mistake, contributing to Messi Inter Miami’s triumph in the decisive moments.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 7 games / 10 goals / 1 assist
Throughout the Leagues Cup, Messi’s Inter Miami tallied a total of 22 goals with Messi in the lineup, of which Messi himself scored 10 and provided an assist for another. Additionally, one of the goals was an own goal that occurred following a Messi freekick. This impressive record means that Messi had a direct hand in over 50% of the team’s goals during the tournament.
Watch reactions to winning the first trophy in Miami history
A Mesmerizing Messi Inter Miami Goal Marks MLS Debut
Lionel Messi’s first appearance in the MLS for Inter Miami was nothing short of spectacular, particularly highlighted by his goal against the New York Red Bulls. This moment of brilliance wasn’t just about the goal itself but also the build-up, featuring an unbelievable pass to Benjamin Cremaschi that left commentators in awe, with one exclaiming, “this is the most ridiculous ball I have ever seen.”
This incredible play, which saw Messi receiving the ball back from Cremaschi before finding the net, showcased not just his goal-scoring ability but also his extraordinary vision and skill in playmaking. This Messi Inter Miami goal was a masterpiece, highlighting his seamless transition to the MLS and contributing significantly to a convincing 2-0 victory.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 8 games / 11 goals / 1 assist
Assist Masterclass Against LAFC
Although Messi didn’t score against LAFC, his playmaking skills were evident with two assists, including setting up Jordi Alba for a goal in a 3-1 victory.
Messi Inter Miami goal count: 9 games / 11 goals / 3 assists
International Duties and Injury: Challenges Faced
Messi Inter Miami’s 2023 season was not without its challenges. Messi’s commitments to the Argentina jersey and national team included scoring a winner against Ecuador in a World Cup qualifying match, a testament to his unwavering form and dedication to his country. However, these international duties meant missing crucial matches for Inter Miami, impacting the team’s performance in his absence.
Additionally, Messi faced an unspecified injury that led to him missing several key games for Inter Miami, including a 3-2 win over Sporting KC. This period highlighted Messi’s indispensable role in the team, as his absence was keenly felt.
Despite these setbacks, Lionel Messi’s value to Inter Miami has been irrefutable; his skill and commanding presence on the field have undoubtedly justified his salary. It’s likely that David Beckham himself regards every penny of Messi’s salary as a worthy investment, given the inspiration and momentum Messi brings to the team.
Messi Inter Miami 2023: A Season to Remember
Messi Inter Miami’s 2023 season was a remarkable journey marked by spectacular goals, influential performances, and the resilience to overcome challenges. Messi’s impact on Inter Miami was transformative, elevating the team’s play and bringing a new level of excitement to the MLS. Despite facing obstacles such as international duties and injuries, Messi’s presence and contributions were invaluable. His ability to perform under pressure, coupled with his extraordinary skill and vision, made him an integral part of Inter Miami’s success. As the season came to a close, Messi’s legacy at Inter Miami was firmly established, with his performances leaving an indelible mark on the team and the league.