Lionel Messi once again found the back of the net for Inter Miami on Sunday, leveling the score against Toronto FC in their MLS encounter with a remarkable left-footed strike in the first half.
The play unfolded when Telasco Segovia skillfully navigated through Toronto`s defense before setting up Messi just outside the penalty box. Messi controlled the bouncing ball, adjusted his body, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that zipped 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 it was not reviewed by the referees.
Messi`s equalizer was a timely response after Miami conceded the opening goal just minutes prior. Toronto, positioned near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, put up a competitive first half and took the lead thanks to a goal from Federico Bernardeschi.
In the first half, Miami registered more shots than Toronto, but Toronto created more dangerous scoring opportunities based on expected goals. Miami did have other chances, including a disallowed goal by Messi earlier in the half due to a foul.
This goal marks Messi`s third in the MLS season and his sixth across all competitions.
Adrian Whitmore