Lionel Messi's Late Goal Secures 1-1 Draw For Inter Miami Against LA Galaxy In MLS
The atmosphere at the Galaxy's suburban stadium was electrifying, with a record attendance of 27,642 fans, many of whom sported Messi jerseys.
In a highly anticipated clash between two MLS powerhouses, Lionel Messi showcased his magic once again, salvaging a crucial 1-1 draw for Inter Miami against the LA Galaxy. Dejan Joveljic had earlier put the Galaxy ahead in the 75th minute, threatening to deliver an early-season upset against Messi's new team.
Taking a point back home +1️⃣ pic.twitter.com/WEhLGnAjq2 — Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) February 26, 2024
Despite being down to 10 men, the Galaxy were on the brink of securing a surprising victory before Messi intervened. In the dying moments of the game, Messi capitalized on a pass from his former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, elegantly chipping the ball past Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy to ignite the crowd and secure a vital point for Inter Miami.
The atmosphere at the Galaxy's suburban stadium was electrifying, with a record attendance of 27,642 fans, many of whom sported Messi jerseys. Inter Miami, boasting a star-studded lineup featuring Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Alba, entered the season as the favorites to dominate MLS.
However, the rebuilding Galaxy, lacking big-name signings this time around, put up a spirited performance, outplaying Miami for large portions of the game. Despite Miami's physical defense, the Galaxy's relentless attacking play saw them create numerous scoring opportunities, eventually breaking the deadlock through Joveljic's tap-in goal.
Mark Delgado's controversial sending-off in the 87th minute further complicated matters for Miami, but Messi had a chance to clinch victory soon after. Unfortunately for him, his shot veered wide, prompting a moment of frustration. However, Messi seized his next opportunity with composure, ensuring that Inter Miami escaped with a draw.
The match was a spectacle long awaited by MLS fans, symbolizing the league's growth and ambition. David Beckham, a key figure in MLS history, played a pivotal role in both Inter Miami's rise and the Galaxy's illustrious past. With Beckham's statue adorning the Galaxy's stadium, the match represented a clash between two eras of MLS, highlighting the league's evolution over the years.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the significance of the occasion, acknowledging the tireless efforts invested in shaping the league into what it is today. The excitement surrounding the match echoed MLS's progress since Beckham's arrival in 2007, underscoring the league's ambition to continue growing and attracting global attention.
In summary, Lionel Messi's late heroics salvaged a draw for Inter Miami against the LA Galaxy in a thrilling encounter that epitomized the excitement and evolution of MLS over the years.
