Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi’s remarkable form continued for Inter Miami as he played a pivotal role in securing the Leagues Cup title on Sunday. The Argentine superstar scored a breathtaking goal in the 24th minute of the match and later calmly converted a penalty in the dramatic shootout, which Inter Miami won 10-9 after the game had ended 1-1 in regular time.
Messi’s goal, his 10th in just 7 matches for the club, showcased his incredible talent as he received the ball just outside the penalty box and unleashed a stunning shot that found the top corner of the net, leaving the Nashville goalkeeper helpless.
The match took an exhilarating turn when Leonardo Campana narrowly missed a last-second opportunity to clinch victory for Miami in regulation time. It then proceeded to a shootout, where the spotlight shone on the two goalkeepers. Miami’s Drake Callender emerged as the hero by saving Elliot Panicco’s crucial penalty.
Messi and his teammates celebrated with Callender, who had made crucial saves to keep Miami in the game. Remarkably, since Messi’s arrival a month ago, Inter Miami, previously languishing at the bottom of Major League Soccer, has undergone a stunning transformation, culminating in their Leagues Cup triumph.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s incredible run of form includes his 10 goals in seven appearances for his new club. On Wednesday, Miami has another chance for glory as they face Cincinnati in the semi-final of the US Open Cup. While this wasn’t Miami’s most dominant or entertaining performance, the victory was a sweet reward for their recent resurgence in the tournament, which has featured top MLS and Mexican Liga MX clubs.