Messi World-Class Free Kick Seals Miami's Thrilling Leagues Cup Win

 Messi World-Class Free Kick Seals Miami's Thrilling Leagues Cup Win

Messi World-Class Free Kick Seals Miami's Thrilling Leagues Cup Win(Image-Getty)

In a captivating display of skill and brilliance, Lionel Messi replicated the magic of his debut with an extraordinary world-class free kick for Inter Miami CF during their Leagues Cup Round-of-16 match against FC Dallas on a Sunday evening. With just five minutes left in the game, the Argentine maestro delivered an 85th-minute stunner that secured a remarkable 4-4 comeback draw, leading to penalty kicks at Toyota Stadium.

As the shootout commenced, Messi once again displayed nerves of steel, converting his spot-kick with ease, propelling the Herons to a thrilling 5-3 victory in the penalty shootout. The scenes were reminiscent of Messi's legendary 94th-minute goal in his first-ever match for Miami, which resulted in a dramatic 2-1 triumph over Liga MX side Cruz Azul. On both occasions, the soccer virtuoso artfully guided the ball into the top corner with his trademark left foot, leaving fans in awe.

With this latest golazo, Messi has achieved a remarkable feat of scoring a brace in three consecutive matches for Inter Miami and now boasts an impressive tally of seven goals in the tournament, positioning himself as a strong contender for the coveted Leagues Cup Golden Boot honors. His scoring spree began in the 6th minute of the match against FC Dallas when he perfectly timed a low cross from former FC Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, swiftly finding the back of the net.

The victory propels Miami and Messi's journey forward, and they now advance to the Leagues Cup quarterfinal scheduled for August 11. The upcoming match, to be hosted at DRV PNK Stadium, will see them face either Houston Dynamo FC or Charlotte FC, providing fans with another chance to witness the magic that unfolded during Messi's first MLS road test, which ended in a truly stunning fashion.