Lionel Messi netted a stunning right-footed goal to secure a 1-0 victory for Inter Miami over Kansas City in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup round one.
In the 55th minute, midfielder Sergio Busquets received the ball on the left, lofting it high into the box toward Messi. With no home defenders closing in, the 37-year-old superstar comfortably controlled the ball with his chest before switching to his right foot to outfox his marker. In a moment of brilliance, he unleashed an unexpected shot with his non-preferred foot from a tight angle, sending the ball curling past a defender into the far corner and leaving goalkeeper John Pulskamp with no chance.
Not only did Messi score the only goal of the match, but he also shone in other key areas—registering three shots, three chances created, and three successful dribbles. According to Fotmob, the Argentine maestro earned an 8.5 rating, the highest in the game, while Busquets trailed closely with an 8.4.
This match marked Messi’s first official appearance of 2025. He had initially planned to sit out due to the harsh weather conditions, as the temperature in Kansas City plunged to a frigid -16°C—so cold that some players even had snow clinging to their beards during play. At one point, Messi was seen huddling near the sidelines to grab a thermal device, tucking it into his gloves for extra warmth.
Inter Miami’s captain also debuted a new, long and flowing hairstyle, which looked somewhat unconventional; however, his performance remained consistent with his usual displays. Though his movement was more measured, Messi continued to be the nucleus of Miami’s play. The visitors attempted nine shots during the match, six of which were either created or finished by Messi, while the home side managed seven attempts, missing one particularly dangerous chance.
After the match, coach Javier Mascherano summed it up: “For those who know Messi, this is perfectly normal. He has scored goals like that thousands of times. We are truly lucky to have Messi.”
According to Opta’s club power rankings, Inter Miami currently stands 114th in the world, whereas Kansas City is ranked 370th. Despite this, the home side boasts a richer tradition, having won the MLS Cup twice—in 2000 and 2013—and once reached the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
The 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup features 27 teams, with knockout rounds scheduled from February 4 to June 1. Inter Miami began their campaign in the first round, vying for a spot in the round of 16. This victory gives Mascherano’s side a crucial advantage heading into the return leg against Kansas City, set to take place in Florida on the evening of February 25.