Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine forward, continues to make headlines not only on the domestic front but also on the international stage. At 37 years old, Messi remains a pivotal player for both his Major League Soccer club, Inter Miami, and the Argentine national team. Recently, he demonstrated his profound impact on the field by scoring twice in a thrilling match against Columbus Crew, leading Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory and clinching the Supporters Shield for the best regular season record. As Inter Miami celebrated their triumph, attention also turned to Messi’s looming return to international football, where he will rejoin his national teammates for crucial World Cup qualifier matches against Venezuela and Bolivia.
In a captivating duel against the Columbus Crew, Messi emerged as the hero for his team amidst high stakes and intense competition. The match was a showcase of his incredible footballing prowess. For much of the first half, Messi was notably quiet, with Columbus Crew’s defense holding strong and leaving the Miami fans eagerly waiting for their star’s magic touch to light up the match. Then, just as the first half was coming to a close, Messi burst into action. He expertly controlled a long ball into the box, demonstrating his trademark skill by chesting it down before taking advantage of a deflection off defender Malte Amundsen to poke the ball into the net. This well-timed goal allowed Inter Miami to take a 1-0 lead as the teams went into the halftime break.
Minutes into the second half, Messi once again showed why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. After Inter Miami was awarded a free-kick, Messi capitalized on a misalignment in the defensive wall constructed by the Crew. With pinpoint accuracy, he curled a stunning free-kick past Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, leaving the keeper flat-footed and spectators in awe. His second goal of the match brought the scoreline to 2-0, further solidifying Miami’s quest for the Shield.
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Despite going down by two goals, the Columbus Crew began the second half with a renewed energy and quickly pulled one back through a goal from Diego Rossi just seconds into the half, injecting life back into their game. The drama continued as the Crew put up a fierce resistance only to be undone when Luis Suarez, Messi’s former teammate and fellow footballing legend, managed to score Miami’s third goal with a powerful header. Columbus tried valiantly to overturn their deficit, managing to score from a Cucho Hernandez penalty, but Inter Miami held firm for a solid 3-2 victory.
While the celebration of the Supporters Shield triumph filled the air, Messi’s focus was also shifting towards representing his beloved Argentina once again. This return to national duty comes after a short hiatus due to an ankle injury that had sidelined him recently. His absence was felt by the Argentinian team, and his return has been eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
The Argentine national coach, Lionel Scaloni, confirmed Messi’s inclusion in the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Argentina will first face Venezuela on October 10, followed by a match against Bolivia five days later. Both matches are of critical importance as they commence the round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Messi’s contribution will be crucial as Argentina aims to secure its place in the prestigious tournament.
Despite the toll that decades of professional football can take on an athlete, Messi continues to defy the odds with each passing game, delivering performances that electrify fans worldwide. His dual roles with Inter Miami and the Argentine national team highlight his exceptional talent and the respect he commands in the world of football. As he transitions from MLS play to the international stage, many will look forward to seeing whether Messi can replicate his club form in international colors once again. His presence not only inspires his teams but also serves as a beacon of brilliance that captivates audiences, showcasing why Lionel Messi remains at the zenith of global football.
