Lionel Messi once again found the back of the net for Inter Miami on Sunday, scoring the equalizing goal in the first half of their MLS match against Toronto FC. His left-footed strike was a moment of brilliance.
The play unfolded when Telasco Segovia skillfully navigated through Toronto`s defense during stoppage time in the first half. He then passed the ball to Messi, who was positioned just outside the penalty area. Messi controlled the bouncing ball, quickly adjusted his body, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that flew into the bottom right corner of the goal.
This impressive goal secured a 1-1 draw for Inter Miami. Earlier in the play, there was a potential handball by Miami`s Gonzalo Lujan, but it was not reviewed by the referees.
Messi`s goal was a timely response after Miami had conceded the opening goal just three minutes prior. Toronto, who are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, put up a strong fight in the first half, with Federico Bernardeschi scoring their initial goal.
In the first half, Miami took more shots than Toronto (12-8), but Toronto created more dangerous scoring opportunities, with an expected goals value of 1.88 compared to Miami`s 0.49. However, Miami did have chances, including a disallowed goal by Messi earlier in the half due to a foul.
This goal marks Messi`s third in the MLS season and his sixth across all competitions.
Dominic Ashworth