15 October 2026
THE FOOTBALL TRIBUNE
Leo Messi Scores Twice in First Game Since Argentina Farewell as Inter Miami Thrash DC United 4-0!

Leo Messi Scores Twice in First Game Since Argentina Farewell as Inter Miami Thrash DC United 4-0!

Just four days after closing the curtain on his historic, trophy-laden international career with Argentina, Lionel Messi returned to club action without missing a beat. The 39-year-old superstar delivered a masterclass performance, scoring twice as Inter Miami smashed D.C. United 4-0 at Nu Stadium on Saturday night.The emphatic victory snapped a five-match winless slide for Miami, marking the first Major League Soccer (MLS) league victory for newly appointed head coach Cristian "Kily" González. With former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez also bagging a first-half brace, the iconic attacking duo produced a vintage display that propelled Inter Miami back into second place in the MLS Eastern Conference standings.Below, we break down all the action, analyze the player ratings, evaluate Messi's record-breaking campaign for a third consecutive MLS MVP award, and explore reports linking the legend to a potential historic appearance in the Copa Libertadores. First Half: Luis Suárez Dominates Early to Set the ToneInter Miami entered Saturday’s fixture under mounting pressure after going five league matches without a victory (four draws and one loss). However, any lingering nerves were immediately erased inside the opening three minutes.Off a sharp buildup orchestrated by mid-season signing Germán Berterame, Luis Suárez received the ball near the center of the penalty box, shifted onto his left foot, and unleashed a thunderous strike into the top corner.D.C. United struggled to build rhythm against Miami's newly structured midfield featuring Rodrigo De Paul and Casemiro. In the 39th minute, Berterame unlocked D.C. United's defensive line once again, finding Suárez inside the box for his second goal of the night—and his 16th league goal of the season. Second Half: The Lionel Messi Show Takes Center StageWhile Suárez provided the early spark, the second half belonged entirely to Lionel Messi, who played all 90 minutes fresh off his emotional goodbye to La Albiceleste. 1. The 47th-Minute Tap-In (3-0)Just two minutes after the restart, Suárez returned the favor to his longtime teammate. Pouncing on loose space inside the 6-yard box, the Uruguayan forward centered a crisp pass toward the far post, where Messi tapped it in past D.C. United keeper Sean Johnson to extend the lead to 3-0. 2. The 60th-Minute Solo Masterpiece (4-0)Thirteen minutes later, Messi produced a hallmark moment of brilliance. Collecting a slick pass from Argentine compatriot Rodrigo De Paul, Messi drove into the 18-yard area. Facing three converging defenders, he executed a rapid cutback that left the D.C. United backline stranded before curling a low finish from 12 yards into the bottom corner. Post-Match Reaction: Kily González & Suárez PraiseSpeaking in his post-game press conference, Inter Miami head coach Cristian "Kily" González reflected on managing Messi following his international retirement and addressed rumors regarding a prospective Copa Libertadores appearance. Could Messi Play in the Copa Libertadores?When asked about CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez teasing the possibility of Messi playing in South America's premier club competition, González did not downplay the idea:"It doesn't surprise me... my understanding is that we've been exploring this possibility for a few years now. Obviously, we'd love it because it would be amazing; plus, it's one of the few trophies Leo is missing, so I think that really got him excited too." On Luis Suárez's ImpactGonzález also singled out Luis Suárez for his vital role in Miami's tactical system:"Luis is one of the most important players in my squad. Beyond the goals, he is a player who gives his all constantly and brings so much to the team. I decided to substitute him so he'd be in even better physical condition for Wednesday." Looking Ahead: The Quest for Back-to-Back MLS CupsWith the 4-0 win, Inter Miami now sits at 49 points (13W-5L-10D), solidifying second place in the Eastern Conference and staying on track to secure home-field advantage for the upcoming playoffs.As Inter Miami aims to become the first team since the Los Angeles Galaxy (2011–2012) to repeat as MLS Cup champions, Messi’s laser-focused form suggests the legendary forward is as hungry as ever.How many goals did Lionel Messi score against D.C. United?Lionel Messi scored two goals (47' and 60') in Inter Miami's 4-0 victory over D.C. United. Has Lionel Messi retired from international football?Yes. Messi played his farewell match for Argentina earlier in the week, bringing an end to his national team career where he finished as Argentina's all-time leading scorer with 126 goals in 208 caps. How many goals does Lionel Messi have in the 2026 MLS season?Messi leads the MLS with 23 goals and 13 assists in 20 matches played this season. READ MORE: Messi-mania in the USA While Ronaldo Struggles to Attract Fans in Saudi Arabia!
3 day

Barcelona 3-0 Getafe: Anthony Gordon Scores Debut Goal in Perfect La Liga Win!

FC Barcelona’s return to action following the international break was as smooth as it was dominant. Hansi Flick’s men cruised to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Getafe at the Spotify Camp Nou, maintaining their flawless record across all competitions this season.While many pundits predicted a cagey, grueling affair against a notoriously physical and defensive Getafe setup, Barcelona made short work of the visitors. Anthony Gordon opened his Barcelona account within 90 seconds, followed by a brilliant solo strike from Gabriel Jesus and a second-half volley from Jules Koundé.The victory marks eight wins out of eight in La Liga, keeping the Blaugrana five points clear at the summit of the table while building unstoppable momentum ahead of their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Galatasaray.  Rapid-Fire Start: Anthony Gordon Opens His Barça AccountFacing a team known for parking the bus, the single most effective weapon is an early goal and Barcelona delivered in sensational fashion just 90 seconds into the match.Receiving the ball near the edge of the penalty box, summer signing Anthony Gordon showcased his signature agility, dribbling past two Getafe defenders before unleashing a powerful, deflected shot that beat the goalkeeper and crashed into the back of the net.The goal marked Gordon’s first-ever competitive goal in a Barcelona shirt, instantly shattering Getafe’s defensive game plan and allowing the hosts to dictating tempo for the remaining 88 minutes."The best thing to do against such a defensive team as Getafe is to score early," noted tactical analysts after the match. "Scoring in under two minutes completely neutralized Getafe's deep block." Total Control: Gabriel Jesus Doublings the LeadDespite conceding early, Getafe refused to open up, maintaining over eight players behind the ball to prevent further damage. However, Barcelona’s relentless press and patient possession, which topped 80% throughout the first half, eventually cracked the visitor's setup once more.Midway through the first half in the 24th minute, Gabriel Jesus dispossessed a Getafe defender inside the box, carved open space with a sharp turn, and buried a sensational solo goal to double the lead.Jesus' electric movement and pressing intensity highlighted the tactical flexibility Hansi Flick has injected into Barcelona’s frontline this season. Tactical Rotation: Flick Rests Stars Without Losing DominanceOne of the most impressive aspects of Saturday's victory was Flick’s tactical rotation. With a crucial Champions League fixture against Galatasaray on the horizon, Barcelona made several key squad adjustments: Key Players Rested: Raphinha, Pau Cubarsí, and Pedri were all rested or rotated to preserve energy.Midfield Masterclass: Gavi made just his second start of the season, delivering an energetic, dominant midfield display that controlled the tempo from start to finish.Defensive Solidity: Despite rotation across the backline, Barcelona completely restricted Getafe, conceding zero shots on target during the opening 45 minutes. Second Half Execution: Lamine Yamal Assists Jules KoundéBarcelona entered the second half comfortably in second gear, allowing Getafe a brief five-minute spell of possession. The visitors recorded their best chance of the evening when Mojica struck a long-range effort into the side netting.However, Barcelona quickly reasserted dominance. In the 68th minute, wonderkid Lamine Yamal, fresh off his international exploits with Spain-picked up the ball on the right wing and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box.Right-back Jules Koundé met the delivery with a crisp half-volley finish to make it 3-0 and seal all three points. Looking Ahead: Galatasaray in the Champions LeagueThe 3-0 victory provides Barcelona with the ideal foundation for an intense two-week stretch across domestic and European competitions.With key players fully rested, fresh legs across the squad, three goals scored, and a clean sheet in the bag, Barcelona looks like a complete force under Hansi Flick. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Who scored for Barcelona against Getafe?Anthony Gordon scored in the 2nd minute, Gabriel Jesus doubled the lead in the 24th minute, and Jules Koundé added the third in the 68th minute. What is Barcelona's record in La Liga so far this season?Barcelona remains perfect with 8 wins out of 8 matches, keeping them five points clear at the top of the La Liga standings. Did Anthony Gordon score his first goal for Barcelona?Yes! Anthony Gordon scored his first official goal for Barcelona just 90 seconds into his home appearance against Getafe.

Barcelona 3-0 Getafe: Anthony Gordon Scores Debut Goal in Perfect La Liga Win!
24 February, 2026 11:43 PM
Which player won the most World Cup Golden Ball in history?

Which player won the most World Cup Golden Ball in history?

  Pele
  Lionel Messi
  Diego Maradona
Total Survey: 5 People

MLS

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