In what can only be described as a soccer spectacle for the ages, Inter Miami CF secured a pulsating 2-1 victory against Cruz Azul in a thrilling match that will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most memorable games in Major League Soccer (MLS) and international soccer. The star of the night was the legendary Lionel Messi, who made an astonishing debut for Inter Miami, showcasing why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time.
The moment we’ve been waiting for.
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 22, 2023
Welcome to the show, Lionel Messi. pic.twitter.com/3NYCnVOpx9
The Inter Miami CF Stadium was buzzing with excitement even before kick-off, as fans from all over the world gathered to witness the much-anticipated debut of the Argentine maestro, Lionel Messi, who recently made the shock switch to Major League Soccer from Paris Saint-Germain. His arrival in the MLS had sent shockwaves throughout the soccer community, and tonight, all eyes were on him.
The match started with both teams displaying their determination to win. Cruz Azul, the reigning Liga MX champions, had a strong start, maintaining control of the ball and pressing high up the pitch. Their efforts bore fruit in the 21st minute when striker Jonathan Rodriguez found the back of the net with a powerful header from a well-timed corner, sending the Mexican fans into a frenzy.
El primer gol de Messi con Inter Miami 🤯🤯👏👏
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) July 22, 2023
Messi scores in his first match with the club to give us the lead in the 94th minute. pic.twitter.com/pI7bYjEK63
However, Cruz Azul’s lead was short-lived, as Lionel Messi orchestrated a brilliant attacking move for Inter Miami just six minutes later. Messi’s intricate dribbling skills left defenders in awe as he glided through the opposition’s defense, before delivering a perfectly weighted through-ball to Inter Miami’s young sensation, Rodolfo Pizarro. Pizarro made no mistake and slotted the ball past the Cruz Azul goalkeeper, leveling the score at 1-1.
The first half ended with both teams locked in a fierce battle, and the fans were treated to an exhilarating display of soccer skill and determination. The second half commenced with even more intensity, as Inter Miami aimed to capitalize on their newfound momentum.
As the clock ticked down, and both teams continued to exchange attacking blows, it was Messi who seized the moment and etched his name into Inter Miami’s history books. In the 75th minute, he received a perfectly timed pass just outside the Cruz Azul penalty area. With a subtle touch, Messi positioned the ball perfectly for a thunderous strike with his left foot.
Time seemed to slow down as the ball soared gracefully through the air, and the entire stadium collectively held its breath. The moment it connected with the back of the net, the crowd erupted into a deafening roar of jubilation, and Messi was instantly surrounded by his teammates, who recognized the magnitude of the moment. Inter Miami took the lead 2-1, and the match took on an even more frenetic pace in the final minutes.

Cruz Azul fought desperately for an equalizer, launching a series of attacks, but the Inter Miami defense stood firm, led by their rock-solid captain, Gonzalo Higuain. The final whistle eventually blew, signaling a historic victory for Inter Miami CF and a fairy-tale debut for Lionel Messi.
After the match, Inter Miami’s head coach, Phil Neville, praised Messi’s impact on the team, stating, “Lionel Messi is a genius. His presence on the field is enough to inspire his teammates and elevate their game. His goal tonight was simply otherworldly.”
Messi himself humbly credited his teammates for the victory, saying, “I am grateful to be a part of this team, and tonight’s victory is a result of our collective effort. The fans were incredible, and I’m thrilled to have scored my first goal for Inter Miami.”
The victory not only solidified Inter Miami CF’s position in the MLS standings but also sent a powerful message to other teams in the league – they are a force to be reckoned with, and the addition of Lionel Messi makes them genuine title contenders.
As news of Messi’s debut and stunning goal spread like wildfire across the globe, soccer enthusiasts from all corners of the world expressed their admiration and excitement on social media. #MessiMagic and #InterMiami trended worldwide, reflecting the impact of the superstar’s debut.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s debut for Inter Miami CF will forever be etched in soccer history as an unforgettable moment of brilliance. His magical goal propelled the team to a remarkable 2-1 victory against Cruz Azul and marked the beginning of a new chapter in his illustrious career. As the soccer world continues to marvel at Messi’s genius, Inter Miami fans can look forward to more incredible moments with their new talisman leading the charge.