Lionel Messi continues to make an immediate impact for Inter Miami CF, extending his streak of scoring in every game with the team. Messi’s presence was instrumental in guiding Inter Miami to a comfortable 4-0 victory over Charlotte FC in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals. The match, held at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, showcased Messi’s brilliance, leaving the close to 22,000 spectators in awe. Inter Miami will now face Philadelphia Union in the semifinals, with hopes of continuing their remarkable resurgence since Messi’s arrival.
Inter Miami wasted no time stamping their authority on the game, with Josef Martínez providing the opening goal in the 12th minute. It was Martínez’s second successful penalty kick ahead of Messi in three games, culminating in a similar result of finding the back of the net. Inter Miami’s second goal arrived just past the 30-minute mark, with DeAndre Yedlin’s precise cross finding Robert Taylor unmarked, who calmly converted with a low shot.
With Messi’s mere presence on the field demanding extra attention, the dynamics of the game shifted. Charlotte FC coach Christian Lattanzio acknowledged the difficulty of stopping Messi, comparing his ability to the magic he showcased during his time at Barcelona. While Messi’s impact was unquestionable, Taylor emerged as a standout performer in Messi’s company. Before Messi’s arrival, Taylor had scored just five goals in 52 MLS appearances. However, their partnership has yielded four goals for Taylor in just five games alongside the Argentine legend.
The influence of Messi stretches beyond individual performances. Inter Miami’s attack has seen a remarkable turnaround, with their goal-scoring rate increasing from an average of one goal per game to over three goals per game since Messi’s arrival. The team’s newfound offensive prowess has propelled their ascent in the league standings, prompting optimism for a successful campaign.
After conceding four goals in a thrilling round-of-16 victory against FC Dallas, Inter Miami’s defense showcased resilience against Charlotte FC. Guided by Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, who provided stability in midfield, Inter Miami limited their opponents’ chances. Charlotte managed their first shot on target only in the 55th minute, illustrating the effective defensive organization of the home team. While Charlotte posed more of a threat after halftime changes, Inter Miami remained largely untroubled in the face of their attacks.
Messi Caps off the Win:
The only element seemingly missing from the match was a Lionel Messi goal, leaving the crowd yearning for his quintessential brilliance. In response, Messi delivered in the dying moments of the game. With just four minutes remaining, he received a perfectly executed pass from Leonardo Campana and calmly slotted the ball into the net. This goal enabled Messi to surpass Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United FC as the leading goalscorer in the Leagues Cup, with each having scored seven goals in four matches leading up to the quarterfinals.
Inter Miami’s resurgence under Messi leaves them just two wins away from securing their first trophy in the club’s short history. For Messi, it would mark his 44th career title—a remarkable achievement for the legendary No. 10. Excitement is building within the team and among fans as they continue to march towards glory in the Leagues Cup.
Lionel Messi’s remarkable impact at Inter Miami CF continues, with a goal in every game since his arrival magnifying his immense influence. Inter Miami secured a resounding 4-0 victory over Charlotte FC in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, propelling them into the semifinals. Messi’s partnership with Robert Taylor has been particularly fruitful, transforming Inter Miami’s attacking capabilities. Their improved goal-scoring rate and defensive resilience demonstrate the team’s overall transformation under Messi’s leadership. As they edge closer to the possibility of claiming their first-ever trophy, the collective excitement surrounding the club is tangible. Inter Miami and its eager fans are anticipating continued success in their quest for glory.
