Lionel Messi’s MLS debut couldn’t have been written better by a Hollywood scriptwriter.
The superstar scored the game-winning goal in stoppage time to give Inter Miami a 2-1 win over Cruz Azul Friday night. Messi scored the goal on a 25-yard free kick that occurred after he was fouled. Messi blasted the kick beyond diving Cruz Azul goalkeeper Andres Gudino and into the upper left corner of the net in the 94th minute of play.
Messi, still working on his fitness, began the game off the bench. He came on to replace Benjamin Cremaschi in the 53rd minute of play.
Messi’s goal sent the Inter Miami home crowd into a frenzy and provided an immediate validation of why the club signed him.
Messi signed with Inter Miami in a deal reported to be worth between $50 to $60 million per year. His deal includes an option for part-ownership of the club and a cut of the revenue from new subscribers to Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass streaming service, according to multiple reports.
Messi showed once again why many fans say he is the greatest player of all time. If he can continue to provide thrills and moments like he did Friday night, Inter Miami’s and MLS’s investment in him will be well worth the cost.