Feb 23, 2025, Posted by: Lila Mwangi
Lionel Messi's debut in the MLS with Inter Miami proved to be nothing short of a rollercoaster as his two well-timed assists helped the team secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against New York City FC. Playing a crucial role in Miami's performance, Messi lit up the match with his trademark vision and precision.
The game opened dramatically in just five minutes, when Messi, teaming up with familiar partner Jordi Alba, set up young Toto Aviles to strike the first blow against NYCFC. However, the elation was short-lived. A mere 18 minutes later, Aviles was shown a straight red card for cutting short Alonso Martinez's goal-scoring run. This left Miami to fend off NYCFC with just ten players on the field.
Capitalizing on this advantage, Mitja Ilenic netted a free kick, leveling the score. As the match progressed into the second half, NYCFC took the lead at the 55th minute when Martinez seized on an error by Alba, putting them ahead 2-1.
Despite the shaky defense, Inter Miami wasn't ready to concede defeat. Entering the fray from the bench, Telasco Segovia, on his MLS debut, received a brilliantly threaded through ball from Messi in the dying moments of the match. Demonstrating nerves of steel, the 21-year-old Venezuelan expertly chipped NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese, securing the much-needed equalizer in what became captivating second-half stoppage time drama.
Messi's influence wasn't confined to his assists. He remained a constant threat, nearly scoring with a free kick in the 72nd minute and orchestrating an opportunity for Federico Redondo, which, unfortunately, veered wide. Under new tutelage with coach Javier Mascherano at the helm, Inter Miami begins their season grappling with defensive holes notably due to key injuries—the likes of Drake Callender and Hector Martinez are missing from the lineup.
While the lack of a full squad presented its challenges, the determination to battle back against adversities was evident in Miami's resilience. Messi's outstanding contributions underscore his importance to the team and mark a promising start to the season in this fresh chapter under Mascherano, despite the apparent hurdles.
Author
Lila Mwangi
I am a journalist with a keen interest in covering the intricate details of daily events across Africa. My work focuses on delivering accurate and insightful news reports. Each day, I strive to bring light to the stories that shape our continent's narrative. My passion for digging deeper into issues helps in crafting stories that not only inform but also provoke thought.