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MESSI DELIVERS ON DEBUT

By Anthony Rotz

Jul 21, 2023; Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA; Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi (10) celebrates after scoring a goal against Cruz Azul during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Major League Soccer via USA TODAY Sports
Jul 21, 2023; Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA; Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi (10) celebrates after scoring a goal against Cruz Azul during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Major League Soccer via USA TODAY Sports /
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The script writers are at it again.

When Zlatan Ibrahimović debuted for the LA Galaxy and scored THAT goal, it was fair to wonder if we’d ever see such an anticipated debut deliver. As he’s used to, leave it Lionel Messi to gazump Zlatan.

When Messi was officially named to the bench, there was little surprise. Eventually, they would get to see the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Introduced in the 54th minute, the crowd wouldn’t just see Messi, they would experience Messi.

As the Barcelona legend turned his back to the goal, some 24 yards out, former Toronto FC defender Carlos Salcedo sent the Argentine to the ground.

With the whistle blown, you knew it was all but over. Written by an underground cabal weeks ago.

In front of a star-studded crowd featuring the LeBron James of basketball, Messi etched his name in American Soccer lore. His renowned left foot launched the free kick into the top left, securing a 2-1 win for Inter Miami on his debut and marking his stateside arrival.

If you still aren’t sure all of this is real, it’s OK. I’m still in shock that he’s in an Inter Miami shirt.

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