De Paul’s debut, Messi wins with two assists after returning from suspension

Argentine midfielder Rodrigo de Paul recently joined Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami on loan after departing Atletico Madrid, a move that sparked debate and criticism within Argentina’s sports community. Despite the controversy, de Paul made an immediate impact, debuting in Miami’s jersey on the same day that Lionel Messi and Álvaro Morata returned from suspension. This reunion proved to be a turning point for Inter Miami, as the Florida club secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Club Atlas at their home ground, Chase Stadium, during the opening match of the League Cup.

In the previous match, both Messi and de Paul watched from the stands as Inter Miami failed to secure a win. This time, however, the team was energized and played with renewed vigor right from kickoff. The match itself was a tense affair, with neither side managing to score in the first half. Despite this, the game was far from dull, with notable moments including a shot from Luis Suarez that hit the post and two excellent saves from the Atlas goalkeeper, which kept the scoreline at 0-0 by halftime.

The breakthrough finally came in the 60th minute. A slick move involving Sergio Busquets and Messi inside the opposition’s box created the perfect opportunity for Telasco Segovia. Though Messi could have taken the shot himself, he opted to pass to Segovia, who showed great composure to score with a single touch. This goal seemed to ignite the game, but Club Atlas fought back with determination. In the 80th minute, Rivaldo Lozano dribbled past two Miami defenders and leveled the match at 1-1, raising hopes for the visiting fans.

With the match heading toward a disappointing draw, the home crowd anxiously awaited a final push. In stoppage time, Marcelo Vigant emerged as the hero. He maneuvered deftly through defenders and, after a quick one-two exchange between Messi and Luis Suarez, found himself in a position to score. Messi, showing his usual brilliance, passed the ball perfectly into the box, allowing Vigant to unleash a swift shot that found the back of the net, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Inter Miami. This last-minute goal not only won the game but also brought immense relief and joy to the fans, though the team had to wait nervously for a VAR review before the goal was confirmed.

De Paul’s debut was notable beyond just the final scoreline. His seamless interplay with seasoned midfielder Sergio Busquets in the heart of the pitch gave the team a new dimension. Their chemistry hinted at how much better the midfield could control the game, reducing pressure on other parts of the team. De Paul’s presence allowed Miami to maintain possession better and transition smoothly between defense and attack. This midfield solidity will be crucial as the club seeks to improve its performances throughout the League Cup and the regular season.

The victory also marked a significant day for Messi, who came back from suspension to make a tangible impact by providing both assists in the match. His vision and passing ability continue to be the backbone of Miami’s attacking strategy, and his understanding with new teammate de Paul is already drawing praise. Both players have the experience and skill to lift the team and help Inter Miami challenge for honors in the league.

Despite the success, Miami’s performance still left room for improvement, especially defensively. Club Atlas’ equalizer exposed vulnerabilities that the team will need to address. However, the win will undoubtedly boost confidence, especially as the team integrates new players and refines its tactics.

Overall, the combination of Messi’s creativity, de Paul’s midfield dynamism, and contributions from emerging players like Segovia and Vigant shows that Inter Miami is evolving into a more competitive side. With these new additions and the backing of an enthusiastic home crowd, the club’s prospects look brighter as the season progresses. This match will be remembered as the day Miami finally found their rhythm and secured a vital victory, signaling that better things could be ahead.