Real Salt Lake defender Justen Glad executed flawless positioning, using a smooth gliding header to clear the ball off the line. This last-minute intervention prevented Messi from securing his inaugural goal of the 2024 season, thereby maintaining his team’s competitive edge.

Throughout his career, the Argentine sensation has been renowned for his trademark direct free kicks. Notably, during his debut for the Herons in July 2023, Messi showcased his mastery by clinching victory with a spectacular shot from a dead ball in stoppage time for Inter Miami.

Messi and the Herons are gearing up to face the Los Angeles Galaxy on Sunday evening in their second MLS season game.

Big-time header from Justen Glad to deny Messi’s free kick. 👀

📺 #MLSSeasonPass: https://t.co/D7skJOK7bn pic.twitter.com/3DD1xf6t2z

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) February 22, 2024

Lionel Messi

This season he played in total once for 90 minutes for Major League Soccer.

Lionel Messi didn’t score any goal for Inter Miami. He procured one assist. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 1st in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami won 2-0 against Real Salt Lake.

Inter Miami performance and stats

Inter Miami is currently 1st in the Major League Soccer with 3 points.

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 2 goals and conceding 0.​