Inter Miami star Lionel Messi Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Lionel Messi pulls off savage move in MLS opener

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 2/21/24

Lionel Messi went viral for the savage move he pulled off during Inter Miami’s MLS opener against Real Salt Lake at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. on Wednesday night.

Inter Miami was leading 1-0 in the first half when a Real Salt Lake player went down on the field just beyond the penalty box. Messi was dribbling the ball and passed it over the downed player to himself, after which he attempted a shot on goal.

Messi really had the audacity to flick it over a player lying on the ground pic.twitter.com/cyHC14r9hZ

— george (@StokeyyG2) February 22, 2024

People couldn’t believe the audacity Messi had to attempt that move.

If I am the guy on the floor, I’d hate whoever blocked this shot for the rest of my life!
He was a Messi goal away from becoming a legend!
pic.twitter.com/vQduRscRAk

— Tactical Manager (@ManagerTactical) February 22, 2024

Bro… Messi literally did the soccer version of AI’s step over… over an injured RSL player. #MIAvRSL #MLSisBack pic.twitter.com/68eBbOTYNK

— Jeff Weisinger / (@J_Weisinger) February 22, 2024

MESSI DRIBBLES OVER DEFENDER. Insane display of skill from the GOAT. Not your typical Wednesday night American football highlight. pic.twitter.com/SlSiDdBbZt

— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) February 22, 2024

I mean come on this is just insane. Guy is down injured and #Messi just bounces it right over him like it’s no big deal pic.twitter.com/93eXdGQ5Mz

— David (@david_b712) February 22, 2024

In addition to that move, Messi assisted on Robert Taylor’s goal in the first half which put Inter Miami on the board.

Wednesday marked the first game of the MLS regular season for Inter Miami. Messi wasted no time captivating fans with his moves and strong play – even if it meant dribbling over a downed player.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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