Messi crowned 'best in the world' after stunning display in Miami win

Danny Ryan
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Lionel Messi has scored three goals in his first two Inter Miami appearances
Lionel Messi has scored three goals in his first two Inter Miami appearances

Lionel Messi's first start for Inter Miami saw him score twice and register an assist in a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup on Tuesday night.

The Argentine maestro followed up his sensational stoppage-time winner against Cruz Azul last Friday with a dazzling display in Florida.

His first goal came after just eight minutes, with the 36-year-old Barcelona legend finishing coolly on the rebound after being put through one-on-one by an exquisite through ball from fellow summer arrival Sergio Busquets.

Finland international Robert Taylor assisted Messi's second on the counter-attack on 22 minutes before the 28-year-old bagged himself a brace either side of half-time.

On his new team-mate's instant impact, Taylor said: "He is the best player in the world. So this is what he does.

"Everyone sees what he does. He can keep the ball — he can do everything on the ball — he can keep it in tight spaces, he makes the right decisions 100% of the time.

"Every time he has the ball, I’ll just try and get in behind, make a run for him, and most of the time he'll find one of our team-mates, for sure, making the run.

"So I think he brings so much quality into the team, so much."

Messi was subbed off in the 78th minute, shortly after Busquets — who also made his first start for the Major League Soccer outfit.

Clearly thrilled to be playing alongside the 2022 World Cup winner once more, the midfielder said: "So many years playing together, it's very easy to play with him.

"I'm so happy to be by his side."

On the team's overall performance, Miami boss Gerardo Martino added: "It was a good performance and I'm pleased we were able to make our fans happy.

"A very good game and we took another step in the right direction."

Victory booked Martino's men a place in the last 32 with ties set to be played between August 2-4.

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Lionel MessiMajor League SoccerSergio BusquetsInter Miami CF