MONTREAL — Lionel Messi displayed his exceptional talent on Saturday, leading Inter Miami to a commanding 4-1 win over CF Montreal at Stade Saputo. The Argentine forward scored two remarkable goals and provided an assist, thrilling the massive crowd and showcasing why he is considered one of the greatest soccer players in history. This performance further highlighted Lionel Messi Inter Miami goals as a key factor in the team’s recent success.
Details of Messi’s memorable goals and supporting efforts
Messi opened the scoring with a curling shot into the bottom-left corner early in the second half, igniting the visiting supporters. Later in the match, he dribbled deftly through Montreal’s defense before placing a stunning finish in the top-right corner, a goal that elicited a roar from the crowd. Alongside Messi’s brilliance, Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia each added goals for Inter Miami, boosting the team’s record to 9-3-5 this season. This game came shortly after Miami’s exit from the FIFA Club World Cup, where they were defeated 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16.
Messi started the game alongside former FC Barcelona teammates Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, adding a familiar dynamic to Miami’s lineup. On the opposing side, Montreal’s striker Prince Owusu scored his fourth goal in as many games, though his team remained bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 3-13-5 record.
Energetic atmosphere fueled by enthusiastic fans
The atmosphere at Stade Saputo was electric, with a sellout crowd decked out in Inter Miami pink and Argentine blue. Fans chanted Messi’s name loudly throughout the match and even surged forward to get a closer look when he took a corner kick early on. The excitement was palpable days before the match, as throngs of supporters gathered at a downtown Montreal hotel to catch a glimpse of Messi after his arrival. On match day, many held signs and cheered wildly as he stepped off the team bus. This marked Messi’s second appearance in Montreal and his fourth game played in Canada overall since joining <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/soccer/mls/”>MLS.
Backstory and key moments within the match
Trailing after an early goal by Owusu—who capitalized on a costly giveaway from Messi—Inter Miami bounced back in the 33rd minute when Allende netted a long-range shot set up by Messi’s precise pass. At the 40-minute mark, Messi took control again, weaving into the box and curling a shot to secure the lead for Miami. Segovia extended the advantage with a strong shot off the crossbar in the 62nd minute, before Messi added his second goal just two minutes later, bringing his season tally to 12.
Although Messi appeared to score a third goal during stoppage time, it was disallowed due to offside. Throughout the match, Miami outshot Montreal 15-13, maintaining 58% possession, underscoring their dominance in the contest.
Upcoming challenges for both teams following the clash
Looking ahead, CF Montreal will face Forge FC from the Canadian Premier League in the second leg of the Canadian Championship quarterfinal on Wednesday. Inter Miami, riding high after their strong showing, will visit the New England Revolution the same day as they continue their MLS campaign. These upcoming fixtures offer both teams a chance to build momentum, with Miami hoping to capitalize on the confidence gained from Messi’s inspiring display in Montreal.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
A. Lionel Messi is one of the richest and most influential athletes globally, with a net worth of $1.15 billion. He has a highly profitable contract with Inter Miami and various endorsement deals. His lavish lifestyle includes real estate investments, luxury cars, and a private jet.