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Fans were in awe of Lionel Messi's significant contribution to Inter Miami's goal in their 1-1 draw against New York City FC in the MLS on Saturday (September 21). The Herons took the lead in the 75th minute, with Leonardo Campana finding the net via a Jordi Alba assist.
Moments before Campana's goal, fans spotted Messi dribbling across a couple of defenders before delivering an impressive pass to an approaching Alba in the left side of the penalty box. Alba received the ball and swiftly passed it to Campana right in front of the goal, who deposited it in the net.
However, the Herons could not hold on to their 1-0 lead, as NYCFC's James Sands equalized during stoppage time (90+5'), securing one point for his side.
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Fans took to X to praise Lionel Messi's key contribution to Inter Miami's goal, despite the Argentine having a relatively bad game, with a passing accuracy of 78 percent (25/32) and losing nine of his 10 duels. One fan wrote:
"Despite having a bad game, Messi was decisive in this goal like he always does."
"Messi pass broke the defense ☠️😮💨," another user noted.
"messi did everything," a netizen chimed in.
"Messi pre assist," a user added.
Fans continued to applaud Messi's contribution, with one fan writing:
"The first pass by Messi was pure class!"
"Started from Messi 🐐," an individual wrote.
"First shot on target, first goal. Great initial ball by Messi which opened the defence in half, Alba then put it on a plate for Campana. Wonderful 💥," an X user observed.
"Made in Barcelona," a fan pointed out.
Lionel Messi returned to the pitch after two months of recovering from an ankle injury he picked up during the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia on July 14. The Argentine legend scored a brace and bagged an assist in his comeback game for Inter Miami, as they beat Philadelphia Union 3-1 on September 14.
In Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against Atlanta United on September 18, Leo Messi came off the bench in the 61st minute.
"I’m a bit tired" - When Lionel Messi shared feelings after his Inter Miami comeback against Philadelphia Union
Lionel Messi returned to the pitch for Inter Miami after two months in their MLS clash against Philadelphia Union on September 14. The Argentine made his mark immediately, securing a brace and an assist in the game.
Shortly after the match, Messi spoke to reporters about his recovery and feelings upon returning to football. He said (via All About Argentina on X):
"The truth is, I’m a bit tired because of the humidity and the heat in Miami. I was really looking forward to playing again after so much time. We know the team we have, we’re deservedly in the first place."
Inter Miami will next face Charlotte FC in the MLS on Saturday (September 28). They are currently 64 points strong at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference.
