Lionel Messi goes into Marvel superhero mode in US; After Thor, brings out Black Panther

In the Leagues Cup round of 32 in 2023, Inter Miami faced Orlando City. After a tense match, the team co-owned by David Beckham won to advance to the next round of the competition. In the US, Lionel Messi put on yet another exhibition of utter dominance. For Miami, Messi has hit the back of the net twice in a row, with two goals each.

3 things you need to know 

• Inter Miami are on a 3 match win-streak in the Leagues Cup
• Inter Miami will face FC Dallas in the Round of 16 of the Leagues Cup on Sunday
• Messi has found the back of the net five times in the three matches he appeared for the MLS side 

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Messi does a new celebration against Orlando City FC 

In the Leagues Cup Round of 32 match-up between Inter Miami and Orlando City on August 2, Lionel Messi once again showcased his talent by leading Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory. After signing with the MLS side this summer, the 36-year-old Argentine, who has already garnered a superhero status in Florida, scored the game's first goal in the seventh minute with a deft half-volley past Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese. Messi stood with his arms crossed, just like MCU's most prominent gesture, the Black Panther's Wakanda Forever sign to celebrate his goal.

Previously, Messi had alluded to a Marvel superhero while celebrating a goal. Messi extended his hand to David Beckham, a co-owner of Inter Miami, during their 4-0 victory over Atlanta United as a tribute to his son's favourite Marvel superhero, Thor. 

Also Read: Enchanting Lionel Messi Beams Glory After Scoring A Fantastic Fifth Goal For Inter | WATCH

What happened during the Inter Miami vs Orlando City FC?

Right after Messi’s first goal, Orlando City FC gained momentum after equalising in the 17th minute, and the first half of the match ended in a draw. Inter Miami gained control of the game in the second half as Josef Martinez successfully converted a penalty kick to give them a 2-1 advantage against Orlando City. Martinez was fouled while advancing on the goal by Orlando's Antonio Carlos, who then gave Martinez the penalty. 

Orlando City changed their strategy to become more aggressive as the game progressed. However, Lionel Messi scored in the 72nd minute to make it 3-1 for Inter Miami, once again showcasing his prowess after a deft cross from Robert Taylor to Josef Martinez, who expertly assisted. Messi skillfully struck the ball with his right foot. Miami will now prepare for the Round of 16 match in the Leagues Cup against FC Dallas. With his latest gestures, Lionel Messi could certainly do some more Marvel celebrations with his new club.