(VIDEO) Lionel Messi’s goal vs. Toronto to make it 1-1 for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi was once again at the centre of the action in the MLS, this time during Inter Miami’s first-half battle against Toronto FC. The Argentine star experienced an emotional rollercoaster in the opening 45 minutes, marked by a disallowed goal, a moment of frustration, and then swift redemption.

Early in the half, Messi appeared to have put Inter Miami ahead with a composed finish, but celebrations were cut short. Following a VAR review, the referee ruled out the goal due to a foul in the build-up—much to the dismay of the home fans and players alike.

Toronto FC capitalised soon after. The visitors opened the scoring midway through the first half, exploiting a lapse in Inter Miami’s defensive shape to take a 1-0 lead. For a moment, it looked as though the momentum had fully shifted to the Canadian side.

However, it took Messi only three minutes to respond. Receiving the ball near the edge of the box, he shifted his body, created a sliver of space, and delivered a precise low shot into the corner of the net. It was a classic Messi moment—cool, clinical, and perfectly timed.

The equaliser reignited the crowd and re-energised his teammates. Though his earlier effort had been ruled out, Messi’s determination remained intact, and his goal brought Inter Miami back into the contest just before the break.

As the referee blew for half-time, the score stood at 1-1. A first half filled with drama, controversy, and moments of brilliance ensured that the second half would be finely balanced.