Lionel Messi once again found the back of the net for Inter Miami this Sunday, scoring the equalizing goal in the first half of their MLS match against Toronto FC. His goal, a remarkable left-footed strike, brought the score level.
The play unfolded when Telasco Segovia skillfully navigated through Toronto`s defense in stoppage before halftime. He then passed the ball to Messi, positioned just outside the penalty area. Messi controlled the bouncing ball with a touch, setting himself up for a shot. He then twisted his body and powerfully struck the ball with his left foot, sending it precisely into the bottom right corner of the net.
This stunning goal secured a point for Miami in a 1-1 draw.
Earlier in the play, there was a potential handball by Miami`s Gonzalo Lujan, but the referees did not review the incident.
Messi`s goal was an immediate response to Toronto taking the lead just three minutes prior. Toronto, who are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, played a competitive first half against Miami. Federico Bernardeschi scored the opening goal for Toronto.
In the first half, Miami took more shots, 12 to Toronto`s 8. However, Toronto created more dangerous scoring chances, with an expected goals value of 1.88 compared to Miami`s 0.49. Miami did have other opportunities; about 20 minutes before his goal, Messi had another ball in the net, but it was disallowed due to a foul earlier in the play.
This goal was Messi`s third in the MLS season and his sixth across all competitions.
