Messi inspires Inter Miami to first win at new stadium

MIAMI: Lionel Messi scored once and set up another goal as Inter Miami secured their first victory at their new home with a 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers on Sunday.

The Argentine forward played a central role throughout the match, troubling Portland’s defence and helping Miami end a difficult run at the recently opened Nu Stadium. The result came in the club’s fifth home game at the 27,000-capacity venue, which had previously seen three draws and a 4-3 defeat to Orlando City after Miami had led 3-0.

Messi at the heart of both goals

Inter Miami went ahead on the half-hour through a move started and finished by Messi. He first released the ball to Luis Suarez, who then found Telasco Segovia with a pass into space. Segovia’s backheel returned the ball into Messi’s path and the forward finished from close range into the far corner.

Miami doubled their lead 10 minutes later after Rodrigo De Paul advanced down the right side and found Messi. The former Barcelona pair then combined again as Messi exchanged passes with Suarez before driving into the penalty area. After beating four defenders, he used the outside of his left foot to square the ball for German Berterame, who converted from close range.

Messi had opportunities to add another after the break in a quieter second half. One left-footed effort from outside the area drifted narrowly wide, while a late free-kick in stoppage time was pushed away by Portland goalkeeper James Pantemis, who stretched to tip the ball away from the top corner.

Home breakthrough lifts Miami

The win was significant for Inter Miami not only because it was their first at the new stadium, but also because it moved the defending Major League Soccer champions to the top of the Eastern Conference. Miami now lead Nashville SC by one point, although Nashville have played two fewer matches.

Nu Stadium was opened last month with considerable attention, but Miami had been unable to turn the new ground into an immediate advantage. Sunday’s result ended that wait and gave the home side a timely boost.

World Cup backdrop

The performance also came with the World Cup approaching in less than a month. The tournament, to be staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada, begins on June 11.

Messi, now 38, won the World Cup with Argentina in Qatar at the previous edition. Along with Cristiano Ronaldo, he is set to become the first player to feature in six different World Cups.

His display against Portland served as another reminder of his enduring influence, with Miami relying on his finishing and creativity to secure a result that had eluded them in their opening four matches at the new venue.