Messi scores in MLS debut as Inter Miami defeat New York Bulls

Lionel Messi came off the substitutes’ bench to score again for Inter Miami, as they defeated New York Bulls 2-0 on Saturday night.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was making his Major League Soccer (MLS) debut for his new club.

Messi’s dazzling goal in the 89th minute ended an 11-match league winless streak for Inter Miami.

Messi entered in the 60th minute along with former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquests.Miami had gone ahead on a 37th-minute goal by Diego Gómez in a buildup started by Jordi Alba, another Barcelona alum on a night Miami gave six players MLS debuts.

Chants of “We Want Messi!” began in the sixth minute and a loud “Mes-si!” “Mes-si!” reverberated throughout in the 35th.

“When we found out that he wouldn’t be starting, I expected there was going to be a couple angry fans,” Miami right back DeAndre Yedlin said. “But if I was a kid or a fan and I came, I would want to see the greatest to ever play the game, as well, so I can’t blame them.”