Netizens bow down to Lionel Messi as he leads Inter Miami to Leagues Cup victory

Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to the  Leagues Cup final victory. The Argentine once again showed his quality on the pitch. David Beckham's co-owned side displayed a strong performance against Nashville on Sunday, August 20, 2023.  Messi scored a beautiful goal in the first half to give his team the lead. However, Nashville’s Fafa Picault scored the equalizer in the 57th minute. The game went on to penalties, where Inter Miami were victorious by 10-9.

3 things you need to know 

• Messi scored a goal in the 23rd minute 
• Lionel Messi recorded 10 goals in 7 matches of the Leagues Cup 2023 
• Drake Callender was named the Man of the Match in the Leagues Cup Final for 2 penalty saves

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Inter Miami vs Nashville FC was a hard-fought battle 

 Lionel Messi scored early in regulation and converted the first shot in penalty kicks as Inter Miami beat Nashville SC 10-9 on penalties in the Leagues Cup final on Saturday night. Messi scored for the 10th time in seven games since joining Inter Miami, converting in the 23rd minute.

The ball landed at Messi’s feet after a pass from teammate Robert Taylor was blocked. Messi dribbled past Nashville defender Walker Zimmerman and unleashed a bending shot from just outside the penalty box into the top left corner of the goal. Diving goalkeeper Elliot Panicco had no chance at playing the ball.

Nashville fans had booed Messi on his previous touches of the ball, but the stadium erupted in cheers when the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner who led Argentina to the World Cup crown last year scored. Messi had a shot from a similar position in the 71st minute, but hit the post as the teams played to a 1-1 draw in regulation. Messi calmly converted the first shot in penalties as Miami claimed its first trophy.

Also Read: Lionel Messi scores a sensational goal against Nashville in the Leagues Cup final - WATCH

Fans react to Messi's Inter Miami victory

Messi has a successful tournament under his belt with his new team. With 44 major titles, he is currently the most decorated football player in sports history. Leo will compete for his eighth Ballon d'Or after having a memorable year that included winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 and establishing himself as one of the footballers who has won every trophy there is.

(With inputs from AP)