Amidst the high-voltage quarter-final match in the Leagues Cup against Charlotte FC. An electrifying moment unfolded that perfectly summed up the prowess of the young and the seasoned. Messi, the GOAT of soccer, found himself at the receiving end of a beautifully executed defense-splitting assist by his 23-year-old teammate.
After their resounding victory, the 23-year-old teammate couldn’t contain his emotions. He expressed his feelings about being part of the momentous play that added to Messi’s illustrious goal tally.
A dream realized on the field
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Leo Campana, a 23-year-old forward hailing from Guayaquil, Ecuador, initially joined Inter Miami on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. He sealed his permanent contract with Inter Miami in January 2023. In the recent match, Campana showcased his prowess by providing a crucial assist that led to teammate Lionel Messi’s decisive goal.
Campana’s impeccable pass set the stage for Messi to make contact with the ball and secure another victory for the team. In a heartfelt interview after the match, Campana shared his exhilaration: “Honestly, I’ve said it before, but I’m just so happy, so happy to have scored a goal with Leo; I couldn’t have even dreamed it. I’d do it all over again. And I’m not afraid to admit it for the fifth time. I’m one lucky guy to share the field with him. I had time, I had time, but then I saw Leo. Leo [Messi] always is in the area, and then we have to play for him and because of him. With the calmness he has with his age.”
Leonardo Campana talks to the media about his assist to Lionel Messi:
“Honestly, I've said it before, but I'm just so happy, so happy to have scored a goal with Leo; I couldn't have even dreamed it.
I'd do it all over again. And I'm not afraid to admit it for the fifth time.… pic.twitter.com/bQDh6ksn0Z
— Favian Renkel (@FavianRenkel) August 12, 2023
While Messi’s appearances have been confined to the Leagues Cup thus far, his imminent MLS debut promises even more excitement. Across his first five matches for Inter Miami, Messi contributed to three goals through assists and has netted eight impressive goals.
Messi’s record-breaking stint at Inter Miami raises excitement for Leagues Cup semifinals
During the match against Charlotte, Messi showcased his prowess and established himself as the all-time top scorer in the Leagues Cup, scoring his eighth goal for the club. The Argentinian achieved this remarkable feat in just his fifth appearance. Showcasing his unparalleled skill and impact on the field.
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Interestingly, Messi’s goal tally of eight goals places him fourth on Miami’s all-time top goal-scorers list. An astonishing achievement given that he’s played only five games for the club. This tally matches teammate Martinez‘s record, who has played 29 games since his transfer from Atlanta United.
With their impressive performance against Charlotte FC. Inter Miami has earned a spot in the semifinals against Major League Soccer rivals Philadelphia Union. Set to take place on Tuesday, August 15. This match will determine who advances to the final of the Leagues Cup.
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In the wake of Messi’s triumphant journey with Inter Miami, one can’t help but wonder: How many more goals will Messi score in the Leagues Cup?
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