Lionel Messi hailed by fans after unseen moment spotted in Inter Miami win
Lionel Messi is known around the world for his attacking prowess but he has earned plaudits for a moment of defensive inspiration for Inter Miami.
The Argentine superstar has made an incredible start to his spell with the Herons, notching a staggering seven strikes in just four games to inspire a cup run. The Floridan franchise reached the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup after a penalty shootout win following a dramatic 4-4 draw against FC Dallas.
Typically, the diminutive winger was the driving force for Vice City, providing the opener six minutes into the knockout tie before scoring a timely free-kick in the 85th minute to force penalties. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner also put away his penalty as his teammates finished off the job.
However, for all his aptitude in front of goal, it is clear that the World Cup winner is equally adept at the unglamorous work at the other end of the pitch. In a viral clip of a moment during the game versus their fellow MLS outfit, the superstar was seen organising his teammates as they prepared to face a free-kick.
After scanning his vicinity, he soon ensured that a wall was set up to try and prevent the free-kick taker from having a direct shot on goal - even telling striker Josef Martinez to join. Of course, supporters will be more used to goalkeepers organising a wall but it seems that the former Barcelona hero is equally adept.
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He was not finished there either as the Miami captain then proceeded to walk past the wall to weigh up any potential separate danger men. While doing so, he also made a subtle gesture to a teammate who was out of shot to seemingly tell him where to stand.
In reaction to the footage, supporters expressed their admiration for the veteran forward's clear commitment to the cause. One user praised the player's intuition during this moment, as they issued a response to a tweet containing the clip posted by user WeAreMessi, saying: "It would be amazing for the man with probably the greatest soccer intelligence and vision to arrange your defence."
Lionel Messi was seen organising his Inter Miam teammates as they prepared to face a set piece versus FC Dallas (Leagues Cup/ Apple/ Football Voices / TikTok / WeAreMessi / Twitter)
Lionel Messi showed that he is not just adept at the offensive side of the game as he issued instructions to his Inter Miami teammates (Leagues Cup/ Apple/ Football Voices / TikTok / WeAreMessi / Twitter)One user also spoke of the importance of Messi's actions, asserting: "It's not just about leadership, it's time Inter Miami gets some lessons from the very best. Leo knows what free-kicks are all about, so his insights about a wall formation could actually help a lot."
One user added: "He is really invested in this club and it's beautiful to see". Another added: "Messi's leadership is always impressive!"
With four wins in as many outings with his new employers, it is clear that Messi is quickly settling into life in South Beach as he chases a 44th trophy of his career. MLS outfit Charlotte FC stand in his way in the last eight of the Leagues Cup on August 12.
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