Inter Miami faced a disappointing Major League Soccer campaign last season, failing to qualify for the playoffs. A similar story continued during their pre-season tour, where they were only able to secure a single win. Nonetheless, those games have surely aided in their preparations for the new season.
The Herons kicked off the MLS 2024 season in the best possible way, going undefeated in their first three matches. This solid start places them at the summit of the Eastern Conference league. Their recent victory over Orlando City was yet another spectacle, courtesy of Lionel Messi.
Lionel Messi brace leads Inter Miami to victory
Inter Miami hosted their Florida rivals, Orlando City, at Chase Stadium, aiming for their second victory. The hosts delivered a thrilling performance in front of their fans, unleashing a five-goal rampage courtesy of the formidable former Barcelona duo, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, both bagged two goals each.
Suarez opened the floodgates with a brace, breaking the deadlock within the first eleven minutes of play. He then set up Robert Taylor for the third goal and assisted Messi for the fifth goal of the match. Messi, in his usual form, scored a brace to seal the victory.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner stole the limelight in the action-packed clash by scoring a brace without using either foot. Acclaimed for his magical left foot, the Argentine, on this occasion, showcased his versatility. Miami skipper used his chest to tap the ball across the line after a ricochet from Jordi Alba’s shot fell to him in the 57th minute.
In his second goal, Messi scored unusually, heading the ball and guiding it far beyond the keeper’s reach. This came from a cross by Luis Suarez to the far post, making it a five-goal haul against Orlando. The World Cup winner has now amassed three goals in as many games this season.
Messi links up with Bizarrap after FT
At full-time, Lionel Messi met with Argentine record producer and songwriter, Bizzarap. The encounter occurred as the Inter Miami star was heading to the dressing room, with Bizzarap, who had been observing the game from the VIP area and watching their national hero in action.
The Argentine duo posed for a picture together after the game with Bizzarap wearing a Miami jersey and Lionel Messi sporting a brimming smile while holding the rapper’s ‘BZRP’ cap. This meeting highlighted Messi’s appreciation for Latin pop, as revealed by his pre-match playlist on Apple Music.
