Lionel Messi scores twice in first Inter Miami start, leads team to 4-0 win over Atlanta
Lionel Messi continued his impressive start to life in Major League Soccer, scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United on Tuesday night. The Argentine superstar also provided an assist in the win, which was Inter Miami’s first in the MLS since March 12.
Messi opened the scoring in the eighth minute, tapping in a rebound after his initial shot was saved by Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan. He doubled Inter Miami’s lead in the 33rd minute, curling a free kick into the top corner of the net.
Messi then set up Gonzalo Higuain for Inter Miami’s third goal in the 44th minute, before Julian Carranza added a fourth in the 53rd minute.
The win was a statement performance from Messi, who has now scored three goals in his first two MLS appearances. The 35-year-old has shown no signs of slowing down since joining Inter Miami, and he is quickly becoming one of the most feared players in the league.
Messi’s performance against Atlanta was particularly impressive considering that he was playing in his first start for Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar was often double-teamed by the Atlanta defenders, but he still managed to create chances and score goals.
Messi’s performance will be a major boost to Inter Miami, who are currently sitting in 10th place in the MLS Eastern Conference. The club has struggled to find consistency this season, but Messi’s arrival has given them a major shot in the arm.
If Messi can continue to perform at this level, Inter Miami will be a force to be reckoned with in the MLS. The club is already one of the most popular in the league, and Messi’s arrival has only increased their profile.
With Messi leading the way, Inter Miami is now a legitimate contender for the MLS Cup. The club has the talent to win the title, and they will be one of the favorites if Messi can stay healthy and continue to perform at a high level.
Here are some of the key takeaways from Messi’s performance:
- Messi was able to create chances and score goals even when he was being double-teamed by the Atlanta defenders.
- Messi’s passing was excellent, and he was able to set up his teammates for several chances.
- Messi’s work rate was also impressive, and he was constantly tracking back to defend.
Overall, Messi’s performance was a major statement of intent. He showed that he is still one of the best players in the world, and he is a major asset to Inter Miami.