In a highly anticipated showdown at the sold-out Dignity Health Park in Carson, California, Lionel Messi displayed his magic with a late goal, salvaging a 1-1 draw for Inter Miami CF against the LA Galaxy on Sunday night.
Despite the Galaxy’s efforts to contain him for most of the match, Messi emerged as the hero in second-half stoppage time, cancelling out Dejan Joveljic’s earlier goal and ensuring his team avoided defeat.
Inter Miami started the game with their quartet of former Barcelona players, including Messi, but it was another former La Masia academy product, Ricard Puig, who shone in the first half. Puig’s dynamic performance kept the Miami defense on its toes, although he was unable to convert a penalty in the 13th minute.
The first half ended goalless, with Messi relatively quiet, but Inter Miami improved in the second half, controlling the game more effectively. Joseph Paintsil and Diego Gómez created scoring opportunities, but LA Galaxy goalkeeper Drake Callender made crucial saves to keep his team in contention.
Broke the deadlock in the 75th minute
The Galaxy eventually broke the deadlock in the 75th minute through Dejan Joveljic, but their joy was short-lived as Mark Delgado was sent off minutes later. Seizing the opportunity, Messi orchestrated a brilliant attacking sequence with Jordi Alba before slotting home a left-footed shot to equalize.
Despite the late drama, Galaxy coach Greg Vanney expressed frustration over Delgado’s second yellow card, criticizing the decision as “soft.” Nonetheless, the match provided an exciting spectacle for the packed stadium, with fans eagerly witnessing Messi’s first encounter with the Galaxy.
The draw sets the stage for the Galaxy’s upcoming match against the San Jose Earthquakes, while Inter Miami prepares to host intrastate rival Orlando City in their next fixture
