In a highly charged Florida derby on Sunday, Lionel Messi stunned Orlando City with a trademark free-kick goal while also delivering a sharp autograph taunt to the opposition’s coaching staff. The Argentine superstar’s performance helped Inter Miami secure a dramatic victory during their MLS campaign, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry.
Orlando City appeared headed for their first win of the season after Marco Pasalic and Martin Ojeda put the home team ahead 2-0 within the opening 24 minutes. However, Inter Miami, managed by Javier Mascherano, responded with resilience, powered by moments of individual skill and teamwork.
Memorable Goals Spark a Stunning Turnaround
The comeback started when substitute Mateo Silvetti struck from 25 yards to cut the deficit to 2-1. Soon after, Messi leveled the scores with a precise long-range shot, marking his first goal of the MLS season. This galvanized Inter Miami, who then pressured relentlessly for the winner.
Venezuelan Telasco Segovia completed the turnaround in the 85th minute after Messi skillfully set him up with a neat cutback. The match was then sealed by Messi himself with a breathtaking free kick in the 90th minute, delivering Inter Miami their first win of the campaign.
Messi’s Taunt Adds Fuel to the Rivalry
Following his winning free kick, Messi celebrated emphatically in front of the Orlando fans before turning toward the home bench and making a sign asking one of Orlando’s assistant coaches if he wanted his autograph. The gesture appeared to be a sharp retort to earlier interactions during the game, emphasizing Messi’s fiery competitive spirit.
Absolutely incredible from Messi: scores a free kick, squares up to the Orlando supporters’ section as he celebrates, then asks an Orlando City assistant coach if he wants his autograph,
said The Guardian’s Pablo Iglesias Maurer.
The dude truly understands a rivalry, even in MLS.
— Pablo Iglesias Maurer
The autograph mockery came after an exchange of words between Messi and the assistant coach, clearly showing the Argentine’s displeasure earlier in the game when Orlando had built their initial lead.
Fans React to Messi’s Intense Display
On social media, supporters expressed astonishment at Messi’s on-field attitude and the fierce rivalry displayed. One fan wrote,
Messi scores a golazo and then asks an Orlando coach if he wants his autograph. Incredible rivalry. Elite trash talking. Inject this into my veins.
Another commented,
Lionel Messi asking the opponent’s manager if he wants an autograph after scoring a free kick has to go down among the coldest moments of his career,
while a third fan remarked, We finally get menace Messi.
A fourth added,
Messi just scored then ran over to the opposition bench and told them he’ll give them his autograph after the game…WHO IS THIS MAN???
What Lies Ahead for Inter Miami
Inter Miami’s thrilling victory over Orlando City marks an important milestone in their MLS season. The confidence gained from this comeback win could prove vital going forward as they prepare to face DC United in their next fixture on Saturday. The intensity displayed by Messi and his teammates highlights growing rivalries within the league and should captivate fans in upcoming matches.
