If you thought Lionel Messi's goal-scoring tear would slow down in the Leagues Cup semifinals, you would be sorely mistaken.
The GOAT added yet another majestic strike to his Inter Miami CF account, beating goalkeeper Andre Blake from nearly 30 yards out in Tuesday's knockout match at the Philadelphia Union. The 20th-minute golazo added to another lightning-quick start for the Herons, who also got goals from Josef MartĂnez (3'), Jordi Alba (45+3') and David RuĂz (84') in the eventual 4-1 victory.
Messi now boasts a tournament-leading nine goals in his first six Inter Miami games – this Leagues Cup run fueled by the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, as well as his former FC Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Alba.
Inter Miami will now contest the Leagues Cup Final on Aug. 19 (Saturday) against Nashville SC, who beat Liga MX side CF Monterrey, 2-0, later Tuesday evening. Their win also guaranteed a 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup spot.