Messi Turns Back Time: Recreates Iconic Barcelona Strike After 18 Years in Inter Miami Colors
Does age truly matter when excellence remains constant? For Lionel Messi, the answer is clear as he continues to demonstrate brilliance, even having recently celebrated his 38th birthday.
During Saturday evening's match, Inter Miami CF made their comeback to MLS regular season play following their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a commanding 4–1 victory over CF Montréal. Messi showcased the qualities that have defined his greatness throughout the past twenty years.
Following an initial error, he recovered magnificently to set up Tadeo Allende for the first goal, then displayed his extraordinary dribbling prowess to net two goals himself. However, his second strike was particularly mesmerizing, seemingly defying time itself.
With his team leading 2–1, Messi collected the ball at midfield and maintained tight possession, leaving defenders bewildered with subtle touches and clever body movements, before firing past the keeper to secure the victory.
This goal carries a sense of déjà vu for good reason.
Despite 18 years having passed, the Argentine maestro nearly replicated his legendary "Ankara Messi" strike, which he netted as a 19-year-old representing FC Barcelona against Getafe during the 2007 Copa del Rey semifinal. That particular goal remains among his finest achievements, accompanied by an equally magical commentary.
Saturday's display also featured additional Barcelona parallels, as Messi became the first player since former Barça legend Thierry Henry to find the net twice across three straight games, following the French icon's achievement with the New York Red Bulls in 2012.
"I continue to find joy in watching his performances," stated Miami head coach and Messi's former Barcelona colleague, Javier Mascherano following the game. "From a coaching perspective, having the opportunity to guide him is truly an honor."
"We must recognize that Leo finds happiness in playing football, and whenever he's fit to participate, he will...he provides us with a significant edge and we intend to maximize it."
Week after week, Messi continues creating new chapters in Inter Miami's history books, and this past weekend proved no exception. Nevertheless, questions surrounding his future persist, with the organization concentrating on capturing this season's MLS Cup while simultaneously hoping to retain the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient beyond his contract's December expiration.
Messi and Miami will take the field again on Wednesday when they face the New England Revolution.