Inter Miami are currently underway in the Matchday 14 of their MLS clash against DC United. Both sides are tussling for the crucial three points at the Chase Stadium yet the score remains in a stalemate. Although the match was called to be delayed after a major hurricane hit Fort Lauderdale, it was later resumed. But even though the storm returned, the referee decided to keep the play, forcing Lionel Messi to experience something he never did before. 

People often questioned the Argentinian superstar whether he would be able to do it on a cold rainy night in Stoke. Well, in tonight’s game, the Miami superstar might have done more than that! This was the first time in over the span of his two-decade career that Messi was playing in the middle of a hurricane. As the match wasn’t halted due to adverse weather conditions, both teams struggled to maintain fluid play while battling against the nature.

Everyone on the pitch is drenched, with their jerseys soaked through. At one moment, Messi prepared for a free kick in hopes of finding a winner. Unfortunately, amidst the rain and heavy winds blowing across the stadium, the 8x Ballon d’Or winner’s attempt ended up hitting DC United’s defensive wall instead. Notably, he made a return to the starting XI after being sidelined due to a knock he sustained on his knees during a 2-3 victory against Montreal. 

This forced him to miss the previous fixture against Orlando City which ended in a stalemate. While Miami has the upper hand against DC United with Messi’s presence, weather conditions are making things tough at the moment. Let’s hope that he tries to find a winner for his side, given that the time nears for his lengthy domestic absence!

Inter Miami must capitalize on the presence of Lionel Messi while they have the chance

These next few weeks will be the only opportunity to witness Lionel Messi play for Inter Miami. Afterward, La Pulga will take to the international stage as the Copa America kicks off on June 20. Prior to this CONMEBOL-based tournament, Argentina is also scheduled to play international friendlies against Ecuador on June 10 and Guatemala on June 14.

Hence, it’s evident that Messi will need to leave the Fort Lauderdale training camp and join his national teammates just a few weeks prior. Perhaps the upcoming domestic games against Vancouver, Atlanta United, and St. Louis could mark Messi’s final appearances in the pink jersey. After that, Tata Martino and Co. will be on their own.

Until then, Messi will also strive to gather as many points as possible for Inter Miami. This way, upon his return from the tournament ending on July 14, he may find Miami still at the top spot.