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Messi’s Meteoric Rise and the Awakening of Inter Miami in MLS

By Arthur Fernandes

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 26: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami tries to kick the ball into the goal in the second half of the Major League Soccer match against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on August 26, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images)
HARRISON, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 26: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami tries to kick the ball into the goal in the second half of the Major League Soccer match against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on August 26, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images) /
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The world of soccer came to a standstill to witness a historic moment when Lionel Messi, one of the greatest legends of the sport, made his regular-season debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) for Inter Miami CF. The stage was the Red Bull Arena in New York, where a passionate, packed crowd eagerly awaited the start of this new chapter in the Argentine superstar’s career.

Messi did not disappoint. Coming onto the field in the 60th minute, he not only scored a memorable goal but also provided a brilliant assist that sealed a 2-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls. The goal wasn’t just a goal; it was a piece of magic that only Messi could deliver, showcasing his unmatched vision and skill.

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY – AUGUST 26: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF jumps for the ball in the second half during a match between Inter Miami CF and New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on August 26, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
HARRISON, NEW JERSEY – AUGUST 26: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF jumps for the ball in the second half during a match between Inter Miami CF and New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on August 26, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

Messi’s impact on Inter Miami CF cannot be underestimated. Since his arrival in mid-July, the club has not tasted defeat. They clinched the Leagues Cup, advanced to the US Open Cup final, and secured a spot in the prestigious Concacaf Champions League in 2024. Messi is not just a standout player; he is a catalyst for the team’s success.

Inter Miami’s success is not solely attributed to Messi. Coach Tata Martino deserves praise for his tactical preparation and for keeping the team focused even when Messi and other key players are not in the starting lineup. The team has shown resilience and determination in their quest for the MLS playoffs, despite being in an unfavorable position in the Eastern Conference standings.

The youth of the team also deserves recognition. With several players under 21, including talents like Diego Gómez, Tómas Avilés, and Facundo Farías, Inter Miami is building a balanced squad that combines experience and youth.

The prospects for Inter Miami remain challenging. They are currently in 14th place in the Eastern Conference standings, needing 11 points from 11 games to reach the playoffs. It’s a tough task, but not impossible.

Messi’s MLS debut and the rise of Inter Miami are an incredible story of determination and perseverance. Soccer in the United States is witnessing a moment of prominence, with one of the greatest players of all time lighting the way for a team that is fighting to overcome adversity. The soccer world is tuned in to this thrilling journey, eager to see if Messi and Inter Miami can defy all odds and reach the coveted MLS playoffs. This is a modern-day fairy tale that is just beginning to be written and has the potential to captivate soccer fans worldwide.

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