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Is Lionel Messi Even Human? Inter Miami Cruises Past Seattle in What Can Only Be Described as Pure Magic
Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Let’s be honest, we’re all just living in Lionel Messi’s world, and he’s graciously letting us watch him play soccer. Last night, Inter Miami didn’t just beat the Seattle Sounders; they put on a clinic, a 3-1 masterclass that felt less like an MLS match and more like a highlight reel for the ages. This wasn’t just a win; it was sweet, sweet revenge for that bitter 3-0 loss in the Leagues Cup final. You could almost taste the satisfaction.

If you ever wondered if the Messi-Alba connection was just a fluke, a fond memory from their Barcelona days, last night put that ridiculous notion to bed. These two aren’t just playing soccer; they’re communicating on a telepathic level that should probably be studied by scientists. It’s almost unfair to the other 20 players on the field.

Messi and Alba: A Bromance for the Ages

The magic began when the game had barely started, just 12 minutes in. Doing what Messi does, Messi launched a counterattack that looked so slick it looked like it was pulled straight from a video game. He threaded a pass to Jordi Alba that was so perfectly weighted, a laser-guided drone might have delivered it. Alba, without missing a beat, buried it in the back of the net. Goal one for Miami, assist number 11 for Messi this season. Yawn. Just another day at the office for the GOAT.

But wait, there’s more. As if to say, “Anything you can do, I can do too,” Alba decided to return the favor just before halftime. He snagged the ball on the left wing, looked up, and sent a pinpoint cross directly into the path of a sliding Messi. The result? Predictable. Messi tapped it in, making it 2-0. That’s his 20th goal in 21 regular-season games. At this point, you have to wonder if he’s even trying. Is this just a casual Tuesday for him?

Alba summed it up perfectly after the game: “I’m always looking for him, and he’s always looking for me.” No kidding, Jordi. We’ve all noticed. It’s a partnership so lethal it should come with a warning label.

When the Kids Get to Play Too

Just to rub a little more salt in the wound, Miami‘s academy product, Ian Fray, decided to get in on the action. Early in the second half, off a corner kick, the 20-year-old leaped up and headed the ball home, scoring his first goal of the season. It’s almost heartwarming to see the young guns stepping up, as if inspired by the living legend they get to share a locker room with.

Seattle did manage to claw one back, a consolation goal from Obed Vargas in the 69th minute. Cute. It was a nice moment, sure, but Miami’s defense, anchored by Óscar Ustari, wasn’t about to let this turn into a real contest. They shut the door and threw away the key.

Miami’s Statement to the League

This victory was more than just adding three points to the board. It was a thunderous statement to the rest of the MLS. Coach Javier Mascherano hit the nail on the head, calling it an “important and much-needed victory.” They didn’t just win; they dominated. Miami controlled the possession, peppered Seattle’s goal with shots, and played with a swagger that screamed, “We’re here, and we have Messi.”

As the regular season continues, one thing is painfully clear for every other team in the league: Lionel Messi didn’t just join Inter Miami; he transformed it. The team is now a must-watch spectacle, a force to be reckoned with. Every match is an opportunity to witness greatness, to see a player who continues to bend the game to his will.

So, for all the other MLS teams, good luck. You’re going to need it. For the rest of us? Grab your popcorn, because the Messi show is just getting started.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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