Lionel Messi scores twice and assists once on first Inter Miami start in 4-0 win

In his first start for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi put on a remarkable performance, scoring twice and providing an assist in a convincing 4-0 victory against Atlanta United. The Argentine superstar, aged 36, found the back of the net twice within the first 22 minutes of the match and later set up his teammate Robert Taylor for another goal in the second half.

Messi’s celebration after his second goal involved pointing at Inter Miami owner David Beckham, showcasing his enthusiasm for his new team. This outstanding display followed his previous match-winning stoppage-time free-kick on his debut for the club the week before.

Teammate Robert Taylor praised Messi’s abilities on the ball, emphasizing that he always makes the right decisions and brings immense quality to the team. Taylor expressed his excitement at playing alongside the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, describing it as a dream come true.

Despite having trained with the team for the first time only last week, following his move to Major League Soccer from Paris St-Germain, Messi demonstrated his brilliance on the field. He had declined lucrative offers from other countries to join Inter Miami.

In the match, Messi’s first goal came in the ninth minute when he capitalized on a rebound from his own shot after receiving a pass over the top from former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets. Thirteen minutes later, he combined with Finland midfielder Robert Taylor to score from close-range, doubling the lead.

Taylor added another goal before half-time, and Messi later assisted him on a break in the second half to seal the 4-0 victory. Substituted in the 78th minute to a standing ovation from the fans, Messi’s impact on the match was undeniable.

The win enabled Inter Miami to advance to the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup, a significant achievement for the team.