Gary Lineker was left awestruck by Lionel Messi’s sensational goal for Inter Miami in their Leagues Cup final win over Nashville on Sunday (August 20).
Messi, 36, bagged his tenth goal in seven appearances for the Herons. The Argentine icon weaved his way past one defender before bending a phenomenal effort past goalkeeper Elliot Panicco.
It was perhaps one of Lionel Messi’s best strikes since arriving at the DRV PNK Stadium earlier this summer. The iconic forward’s opener stunned Lineker who couldn’t help but contain his admiration for the goal. He tweeted:
“Blimey!”
Nashville would equalise in the second half through Fafa Picault’s 57th-minute finish. The final headed to penalties, where Messi slotted in the opening one before his Miami side won 10-9.
Messi has already become a hero in Miami, and his teammates threw him up in the air when celebrating their famous win. His extraordinary exploits for the Herons have helped them to their first trophy.
The Argentine icon joined Inter Miami after his contract with Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain expired on June 30. He suggested that adaption was an issue during his time in the French capital.
However, Messi is having no such problems in Florida and is netting some remarkable goals in the process.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham is over the moon for signing Lionel Messi
David Beckham has dubbed Lionel Messi as the greatest player in history when expressing his delight at capturing his signature. The Inter Miami co-owner said (via Albiceleste Talk):
“I’ve signed the greatest in football history. I’m so proud.”
Messi joined the Herons on a two-and-a-half-year deal following the expiration of his contract with PSG. Sportico reports that he will earn up to $150 million from his salary, signing bonus and equity in the team.
The Argentine’s arrival has changed Inter Miami’s fortunes, from both a sporting perspective and commercial. The MLS side were in woeful form before he arrived at DRV PNK.
Gerardo Martino’s men have now won every game he has played in, leading to their first-ever trophy. It comes as no surprise, given Messi’s illustrious career which has seen him win a record seven Ballon d’Or awards.
The iconic forward won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year with Argentina, cementing his legacy as arguably the greatest player of all time.