Inter Miami experienced a stunning Florida derby against Orlando City. Trailing 2-0 after 24 minutes following goals from Marco Pasalic and Martin Ojeda, Javier Mascherano’s players finally won 4-2. Lionel Messi orchestrated this spectacular comeback. After Mateo Silvetti reduced the score, the number 10 equalized with a shot from the left in the 57th minute, then delivered an assist to Telasco Segovia (85th).
It is the end of the match which offers the essential video sequence of the day. At the edge of added time, the Argentinian won a free kick after a foul by Colin Guske, who was sent off in the action. He transformed this opportunity to score the 70th direct free kick of his career. By returning after celebrating in front of the wall of supporters in Orlando, the superstar let his provocative side shine through.
Messi, the genius and the tease
In these widely relayed images, the 38-year-old turns towards the opposing bench and coach Oscar Pareja. With assumed irony, Messi taunts the technician by miming signing an autograph. This attitude even pushed former American international Alexi Lalas to describe him as “cold-blooded killer”. He affords himself this luxury while scoring in a 22nd consecutive calendar year among professionals.
This scene allows us to see a very natural Lionel Messi again. Despite his immense experience and his legendary status, he retains instinctive behaviors, not hesitating to be joking or to taunt his direct opponent. Carried by the intensity of the derby, it reveals an intact passion and spontaneity without the slightest calculation. We may or may not appreciate this teasing character trait, but he is like that: a formidable competitor always driven by the fury to win.
