Lionel Messi's Stunning Free-Kick Secures Inter Miami CF's Thrilling 1-2 Victory | Match Summery

 Lionel Messi's Stunning Free-Kick Secures Inter Miami CF's Thrilling 1-2 Victory | Match Summery

Lionel Messi's Stunning Free-Kick Secures Inter Miami CF's Thrilling 1-2 Victory(Image-Getty)

In its debut Leagues Cup match, Inter Miami CF achieved a momentous 1-2 victory against Cruz Azul. The Argentine sensation, Lionel Messi, orchestrated the historic win, delivering a remarkable free-kick winner in the 94th minute. The electrifying performance took place in front of a capacity crowd at DRV PNK Stadium.

Here's a breakdown of the game:

Lineup Notes:

- Drake Callender guarded the goal, with Ian Fray, Sergii Kryvtsov, Kamal Miller, and DeAndre Yedlin forming the solid back four.

- Benjamin Cremaschi, David Ruiz, and Dixon Arroyo commanded the midfield.

- Robert Taylor and Robbie Robinson showcased their talent on the wings, alongside striker Leonardo Campana.

Notably, the recent signings of World Cup champions Messi and Sergio Busquets had them start on the bench. However, both players eventually made their Inter Miami debuts during the match.

Match Action:

The game commenced at a blistering pace, with both teams creating chances and displaying dangerous transitions. Around the 25th minute, Inter Miami began to intensify the pressure, resulting in opportunities for Robinson and Campana, but the score remained goalless for the time being.

In the 44th minute, the hosts finally broke the deadlock. Robinson executed a sensational long pass to Taylor on the left wing, who skillfully outmaneuvered his marker, cut inside, and struck a low shot off the far post, finding the back of the net and granting Inter Miami a 0-1 lead. It marked Robinson's first assist of the season and Taylor's third goal of the season, but his first in the Leagues Cup.

The second half witnessed the entrance of superstar substitutes Messi and Busquets, who immediately made their presence felt on their new home ground at DRV PNK Stadium.

However, it was Cruz Azul who struck first in the second half when Uriel Antuna unleashed a powerful low shot to equalize.

As the match approached its conclusion, Messi was fouled in an opportune location for his signature ability. Stepping up for the free kick just outside the box, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner expertly curled the ball into the top left corner of the net, securing a thrilling victory over Cruz Azul.

Post-Match Reaction:

Head Coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino marveled at the sensational performance, comparing it to a captivating movie that would forever be cherished. He praised Messi's ability to craft these remarkable stories on the field.

Next Match:

Inter Miami's next encounter will be on Tuesday, July 25, at 7:30 p.m. ET, when they host Atlanta United at DRV PNK Stadium for the team's final Group Stage match of the Leagues Cup.

Statistics:

 Possession:

  - Cruz Azul: 47.5%

  - Inter Miami: 52.5%

Shots:

  - Cruz Azul: 18

  - Inter Miami: 12

Saves:

  - Cruz Azul: 4

  - Inter Miami: 7

Corners:

  - Cruz Azul: 8

  - Inter Miami: 4

Fouls:

  - Cruz Azul: 12

  - Inter Miami: 14