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LeBron James was squarely in the middle of the Leo Messi mania in Miami. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner made his debut in Major League Soccer for Inter Miami against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup on Friday night.
“King James” and Messi had the entire crowd at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida standing when the two superstars met up. Messi’s last-gasp free-kick goal that gave Miami a 2-1 victory sent the crowd into raptures.
Fans quickly reacted to the moment:
“The Two goats”
LeBron James may be the undisputed king of American sports but Lionel Messi is a global superstar that’s nearly unmatched. James wasn’t the biggest star in Miami that night as the Argentinian brought his soccer magic to South Florida.
The former Barcelona icon stunned the soccer world when he signed for David Beckham’s Inter Miami after reportedly refusing a mouthwatering offer from Saudi Arabia. “La Pulga Atomica” turned down what was rumored to be a $400 million deal to join his rival Cristiano Ronaldo in the Middle East.
The decision was greeted with euphoria, particularly by fans in the US. Star-starved soccer fans in the country will finally regularly see the man considered by many to be the best to ever play the game.
Messi’s impact was there for all to see in just his first game. The stadium was packed with fans standing up for most of the entire game. Even LeBron James had to come out and pay homage to the 2022 World Cup winner. “Leo’s” game-winning penalty kick rocked not just the venue but also the MLS.
Fans have high expectations for LeBron James and the LA Lakers next season
Lionel Messi might have to visit Crypto.com Arena at some point, especially in the playoffs or even the NBA Finals. Basketball fans have high expectations for LeBron James and the stacked LA Lakers to make a run at the championship next season.
Fresh off a humbling sweep at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers retooled to challenge the defending champs. They started last season 0-5 and eventually fell to 2-10, which tied for the worst start in franchise history.
The Lakers can little afford to allow such a bad start again next season.
The Lakers look like a deep, well-balanced and experienced side that can win it all this season, and Messi could witness their success first-hand.
Also read: Who is known as the ‘LeBron James of soccer’ and how did it come about: All you need to know
