Wednesday night was unforgettable for football fans, as the storm that is Lionel Messi literally took New York City by storm. Messi won everyone’s hearts with his amazing performance in a crucial match against New York City FC (NYCFC). He scored two goals and assisted one goal, which led Inter Miami to a 4-0 victory over NYCFC. With this victory, Inter Miami has taken a big leap in the MLS Eastern Conference standings.
Messi's 'one man show'
This match was a close one from the start, as the fourth and fifth ranked teams in the Eastern Conference were fighting each other. Both teams were giving each other equal answers. The scoreboard was empty until the 43rd minute of the match. But then Messi took charge. He scored a perfect pass to Baltazar Rodriguez, giving Inter Miami the lead.
This was just a trailer, the real movie was yet to come. Messi soon put the ball over the goalkeeper’s head and into the net to increase the team’s lead to 2-0. Meanwhile, Luis Suarez, who returned after a three-match ban, also scored a penalty to put the team in a stronger position. At the end of the match, in the 86th minute, Messi showed his magic once again. He single-handedly scored a spectacular goal, beating the NYCFC players and securing a 4-0 victory for Inter Miami. Messi literally turned this match, which seemed tight at the beginning, into a one-sided one.
Results of the victory and Messi's records
With this victory, Inter Miami has overtaken NYCFC in the standings and gained an important position. Before this match, Messi was leading the race for the ‘Golden Boot’ with 22 goals. Now, with these two goals, he has almost carved his name on this award.
Messi's future: contract and the World Cup
There is good news for Inter Miami fans. Messi will soon extend his contract, keeping him in MLS until at least 2026. This means that Messi will be able to see his magic on American fields for a few more years.
When asked about playing in the 2026 World Cup, Messi said, “It’s a bit difficult at my age. But I think about it every day. If I feel physically and mentally fit, I will definitely think about it.”
Overall, the match was an unforgettable saga of Messi’s amazing play and Inter Miami’s team performance. The victory has strengthened the team’s position in the playoffs.