Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated debut for Inter Miami will have to wait a little longer, as the soccer superstar was not present at the team’s recent match against D.C. United. Despite his absence, fans showed their support by donning Messi jerseys in various team colors.
The match between D.C. United and Miami ended in a 2-2 draw, with both teams scoring goals in a thrilling 18-minute period during the second half. Miami’s goals came from two teenagers, while United’s responses came from Taxi Fountas and Nigel Robertha, who both scored their first goals of the game after coming on as substitutes.
Captain Christian Benteke expressed disappointment, feeling that his team could have secured all three points. Coach Wayne Rooney echoed this sentiment, believing that his team was the better side and created more chances.
Unfortunately for United, the draw did not help their postseason aspirations, as they failed to capitalize on Miami’s poor form. Miami, on the other hand, eagerly awaits the arrival of Messi, as well as former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, and former Barcelona and Argentina coach Gerardo Martino.
Martino, who previously won the MLS title with Atlanta, observed the match from the suite level and is expected to take charge of Miami next week. In the meantime, interim coach Javier Morales fielded a young team, including three teenagers and a 20-year-old.
United had several opportunities to score in the first half but failed to convert. Benteke and Fountas, who was the hero in a midweek victory, were particularly guilty of missing chances.
Miami took the lead early in the second half through Benjamin Cremaschi, but United quickly equalized through Fountas. Miami regained the lead with a goal from Noah Allen, but United fought back once again with Robertha scoring the equalizer.
Despite the thrilling nature of the match, United’s players and fans were left frustrated by the missed opportunities to secure a victory. The team’s chances of making the playoffs were not helped by the draw.
In other news, defender Donovan Pines received a yellow card in the match, resulting in a one-game suspension. Defender Victor Palsson returned to the lineup after missing three matches, while Steven Birnbaum did not play despite being healthy.
Looking ahead, United will face New England in their next match before taking a five-week break from their regular season schedule to compete in the Leagues Cup, which features all MLS and Liga MX clubs.
United has been actively scouting potential signings during the transfer window, with a focus on the Concacaf Gold Cup and South American countries such as Brazil and Uruguay. The club is looking to strengthen their squad, particularly in the left wing-back and central midfield positions to fill the void left by O’Brien, whose loan expires soon.
How did the absence of Lionel Messi affect the overall outcome of the match and the hopes of both teams
Hand, was happy to salvage a point from the match, despite missing their star player.
Lionel Messi’s absence was felt by both teams and fans alike. Inter Miami had signed Messi in a highly-publicized transfer earlier this year, and his debut was eagerly awaited by supporters. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Messi was unable to make it to the game.
Despite his absence, fans showed their unwavering support for Messi by wearing his jerseys in various team colors. This display of devotion showcased the impact Messi has already had on the team and the excitement surrounding his arrival.
As for the match itself, it was an exhilarating affair with goals coming in quick succession during the second half. Miami’s young talents showcased their abilities, with two teenagers finding the back of the net. However, United fought back with goals from Taxi Fountas and Nigel Robertha, who made an impact as substitutes.
Miami captain Christian Benteke expressed disappointment at not securing a win, believing his team had the potential to take all three points. Their coach, Wayne Rooney, shared this sentiment, asserting that Miami was the superior side and had created more scoring opportunities.
Unfortunately, the draw did not help United’s chances of making it to the postseason. This missed opportunity to capitalize on Miami’s recent poor form dampened their hopes of advancing further in the competition.
While Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated debut will have to wait a little longer, his absence did not diminish the excitement and passion shown by fans. The match itself was an intense battle, with both teams giving their all. Despite missing out on a win, Miami managed to salvage a point. As Messi’s eventual debut approaches, fans eagerly await his first appearance in an Inter Miami jersey.
“I can’t wait to see Lionel Messi light up the pitch for Inter Miami! The excitement surrounding his debut is absolutely electric. Let’s hope he brings his magic and adds a new dimension to the team’s gameplay. Go Messi, Go Inter Miami!”
I can’t wait to see Messi take the field for Inter Miami! The excitement is palpable and I’m sure he will light up the MLS with his exceptional skills.