Lionel Messi continued his impressive streak of scoring by netting a remarkable first-half goal, driving Inter Miami to a commanding 4-1 win against Philadelphia Union. The match unfolded with Venezuelan striker Josef Martinez taking the lead within the first three minutes, capitalizing on Sergii Kryvtsov’s pass and confidently finding the net past goalkeeper Andre Blake, as reported by Xinhua. Martinez then turned creator, providing an opportunity for Messi to surge forward and unleash a powerful 30-yard shot into the distant corner.
Adding to the tally, Jordi Alba, formerly a teammate of Messi at Barcelona, secured a 3-0 lead just before halftime. Alba capitalized on Robert Taylor’s precise through ball, expertly manoeuvring into the penalty area and executing a lofted shot over the lunging Blake. While Philadelphia’s Alejandro Bedoya managed to reduce the deficit by capitalizing on a corner, Miami’s victory was cemented when substitute David Ruiz collaborated with Deandre Yedlin to secure a close-range goal against Blake.
Inter Miami now awaits their final opponent, either Monterrey or Nashville, for the upcoming championship match on Saturday. Notably, Messi has showcased his immense prowess since joining Inter Miami on a free transfer last month, amassing an impressive nine goals across just six matches. The Leagues Cup, an annual contest involving clubs from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is a platform for displaying exceptional soccer talent and competitiveness.
-IANS
