Match Recap: It was a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams put on a spectacular show. Messi’s incredible long-range strike opened the scoring for Inter Miami, and he later converted a free-kick to level the score 4-4. The match headed into a penalty shootout, where Miami emerged victorious with a 5-3 win, under the scorching 40°C heat in Texas. Daily Mail praised Messi’s performance, stating, “Messi, the unstoppable.”
Messi’s Impact: The Argentine superstar played a crucial role in all four goals, netting two stunning strikes and displaying composure during the nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Despite being twice down by two goals, Inter Miami fought back relentlessly and eventually triumphed in the shootout. The Toyota Stadium crowd witnessed Messi’s magic on display, even as he played as an away player.
Reminiscent of His Iconic Moments: Messi’s opening goal bore similarities to his memorable strike that secured a 3-2 victory for Barcelona against Real in La Liga back on April 23, 2017. Throughout his career, Messi has scored many goals with similar styles, often capitalizing on assists from his teammate Jordi Alba.
Mesmerizing Playmaking: In addition to his two goals, Messi created three excellent chances for his teammates to score in the first half. His precision passes set up Josef Martinez and Robert Taylor for clear opportunities, but Miami failed to convert those chances.
Dramatic Turn of Events: Despite Miami’s missed opportunities, Dallas capitalized on their chances, scoring two late first-half goals courtesy of Facundo Quignon and Bernard Kamungo. Alan Velasco’s free-kick extended Dallas’ lead to 3-1 in the 63rd minute.
Messi’s Determination: Messi’s unwavering determination shone through as he contributed to reducing the deficit to 3-2. His brilliant through-ball found Jordi Alba, who assisted Benjamin Cremaschi to score a crucial goal for Miami.
Unforeseen Own Goal and Messi’s Magic: Taylor’s defensive effort backfired when he accidentally scored an own goal in the 68th minute, leaving Miami trailing 4-2. However, Messi’s brilliance shone once again as his free-kick was headed into the net by Dallas defender Marco Farfan, bringing Miami closer at 4-3.
Victory-Sealing Moment: In the 85th minute, Messi showcased his trademark free-kick skills, curling the ball over the wall and into the top corner of the net from just outside the box. His goal leveled the score at 4-4, and the Miami fans erupted in celebration.
A Triumph Under Pressure: The intense match continued into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Messi’s composed penalty and four successful kicks from his teammates secured Miami’s victory. On the other hand, Dallas’ Paxton Pomykal’s missed penalty resulted in a defeat for the home side.
Looking Ahead: Having played four games for Miami, Messi has already scored seven goals, with a remarkable hat-trick in his last three matches. Inter Miami, under Tata Martino’s guidance, now advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face either Houston Dynamo or Charlotte on August 11th.
