Lionel Messi’s Heroics Propel Inter Miami to Quarter-Finals of Leagues Cup

In a thrilling and dramatic encounter, Inter Miami secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup with a remarkable victory against FC Dallas on Sunday. The match, held at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, witnessed Messi’s brilliance as he scored a stunning brace to turn the tide in Miami’s favour.

FC Dallas initially took control of the game and led 4-2 with only ten minutes remaining. However, Miami staged an incredible comeback, netting two late goals to level the score and force the match into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Miami emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, defeating FC Dallas 5-3. Manager Gerardo Martino expressed his delight at the result, saying, “Being 4-2 down in the 80th minute and then coming back, we are very happy with the result. But the fact that we have gone through shouldn’t let us lose sight of the things that we have to improve.”

Inter Miami’s recent form has taken an impressive turn following Lionel Messi’s arrival. Before his joining, the team had gone winless in 11 matches, but they have now secured four consecutive victories.

Messi, the former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward, showcased his brilliance early in the game by opening the scoring with a mesmerizing curling shot from outside the penalty area. However, FC Dallas fought back strongly and found themselves ahead with a 3-1 lead after an hour of play.

Undeterred, Inter Miami’s midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi narrowed the deficit, only for a Robert Taylor own goal to restore Dallas’ two-goal advantage. Yet, Miami refused to be defeated, as Marco Farfan’s unfortunate own goal in the 80th minute gave them hope. Five minutes later, the ever-impressive 36-year-old World Cup winner, Lionel Messi, struck a breathtaking free-kick to level the tie, bringing his total goals to an impressive seven in just four appearances.

The tension continued in the penalty shootout, where Messi once again showcased his composure by setting Miami on their way. Former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets also converted from the spot, while Paxton Pomykal’s miss proved costly for FC Dallas.

With this victory, Inter Miami has become the first club to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup. The Leagues Cup, which debuted in 2019, brings together teams from the United States and Mexico in an exciting knockout format, promising more thrilling clashes in the rounds to come.