Introduction: A Timeless Masterpiece by Lionel Messi
On July 6, 2025, Lionel Messi once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. At 38 years old, the Argentine legend delivered a performance for Inter Miami against CF Montreal that left fans, analysts, and opponents in awe. Scoring a breathtaking solo goal and a brace, Messi led his team to a commanding 4-1 victory in the Major League Soccer (MLS) match. This unforgettable moment echoed his iconic 2007 goal against Getafe, famously dubbed “Ankara Messi” for its electrifying Spanish commentary. Despite Inter Miami’s recent disappointment in the Club World Cup, Messi’s latest heroics reaffirmed his enduring brilliance and ability to captivate audiences worldwide. This article dives into the details of Messi’s performance, the match dynamics, and why this moment will be remembered as a defining chapter in his illustrious career.
The Stage is Set: Inter Miami vs. CF Montreal
The match between Inter Miami and CF Montreal was a highly anticipated MLS clash, with both teams eager to make a statement. Inter Miami, coming off a lackluster Club World Cup campaign, were determined to regain their momentum in the league. Montreal, on the other hand, entered the game with confidence, hoping to capitalize on their home advantage. The stage was set for a thrilling encounter, but no one could have predicted the sheer brilliance that Messi would bring to the pitch.
The game started with a shock for Inter Miami. Just two minutes in, Montreal’s Prince Owusu stunned the visitors by capitalizing on a rare mistake from Messi. An errant pass from the Argentine was intercepted near the edge of the box, and Owusu calmly slotted the ball through goalkeeper Oscar Ustari’s legs to give Montreal an early 1-0 lead. The goal silenced the Miami fans and put the team under immediate pressure to respond.
Montreal’s Early Dominance and Defensive Resilience
For the next half-hour, Inter Miami struggled to find their rhythm. Montreal’s goalkeeper, Jonathan Sirois, was in top form, thwarting multiple attempts from the Miami attack. In the 15th minute, Sirois made a spectacular save, pushing a fierce strike from Jordi Alba onto the post. His heroics didn’t stop there. Sirois continued to frustrate Miami with brave interventions, darting off his line to deny dangerous opportunities from players like Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia. Montreal’s defense was compact, and their high-pressing game disrupted Miami’s usual fluidity, making it difficult for Messi and his teammates to create clear-cut chances.
Despite the early setback, Inter Miami remained composed. Messi, known for his ability to shift gears in critical moments, began to drop deeper into a playmaker role, orchestrating attacks from midfield. His vision and composure under pressure were evident as he started to pull the strings, looking for openings in Montreal’s resolute defense.
Messi’s Breakthrough: The Equalizer
The turning point came in the 33rd minute. Messi, operating in a deeper position, received the ball and quickly scanned the field. Spotting an opportunity, he played a precise pass to Tadeo Allende just outside the penalty area. Allende, with two quick touches, set himself up before unleashing a thunderous shot that rocketed past Sirois into the net. The equalizer sparked wild celebrations among the Miami players and fans, as the momentum began to shift in their favor. Messi’s assist was a testament to his ability to influence games even when not directly scoring, showcasing his unparalleled footballing intelligence.
The Ankara Messi Moment: A Solo Goal for the Ages
Just seven minutes after the equalizer, Messi produced a moment that will be etched in football history. Collecting the ball near the right flank, he embarked on a mesmerizing solo run that left Montreal’s defenders in disarray. With a combination of impeccable balance, lightning-fast footwork, and extraordinary control, Messi weaved past five defenders, gliding into the penalty area with effortless grace. At one point, he briefly lost possession, but his quick reactions allowed him to recover the ball. In a flash, he struck a rising shot that arrowed into the top right corner of the net, leaving Sirois with no chance. The stadium erupted, and fans watching around the world were transported back to 2007, when a 19-year-old Messi scored a near-identical solo goal against Getafe in the Copa del Rey.
The goal was a masterclass in individual brilliance. Commentators and fans alike drew parallels to the “Ankara Messi” moment, a reference to the Spanish commentary that accompanied his Getafe goal, which became a viral sensation. At 38, Messi’s ability to replicate such a feat is a testament to his enduring physical and technical prowess. The goal not only gave Inter Miami a 2-1 lead but also shifted the game’s momentum decisively in their favor.
Inter Miami’s Dominance: Segovia’s Stunner and Messi’s Brace
With Montreal reeling from Messi’s moment of magic, Inter Miami capitalized on their newfound confidence. In the 60th minute, Telasco Segovia added to Montreal’s woes with a spectacular goal. Receiving the ball just outside the box, Segovia unleashed a piledriver that kissed the underside of the crossbar before finding the back of the net. The 3-1 scoreline reflected Miami’s growing dominance, as they began to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game.
Messi, however, was far from done. In a near-repeat of his earlier heroics, he picked up the ball in midfield and surged forward, shrugging off challenges with ease. His relentless drive took him into the penalty area, where a moment of chaos saw him briefly lose possession. But Messi’s quick thinking and composure shone through. He pounced on the loose ball and smashed it high into the net, completing his brace and sealing a 4-1 victory for Inter Miami. The goal was another display of his ability to turn defense into attack in an instant, leaving Montreal’s defenders helpless.
Messi’s Impact: A Leader On and Off the Pitch
Messi’s performance against CF Montreal was more than just a highlight-reel moment. His brace and assist were pivotal in securing Inter Miami’s third consecutive league victory, a crucial result after their disappointing exit from the Club World Cup. Beyond the statistics, Messi’s leadership and ability to inspire his teammates were evident throughout the match. His decision to drop deeper into midfield to orchestrate attacks showcased his versatility, while his solo runs demonstrated that his flair and creativity remain unmatched.
At 38, Messi continues to defy expectations. Many players at this stage of their careers struggle to maintain their physical edge, but Messi’s agility, balance, and precision seem untouched by time. His performance against Montreal was a reminder that he is not just a player but a phenomenon, capable of producing moments of brilliance that transcend the sport.
Comparisons to the Past: The Ankara Messi Legacy
The comparisons to Messi’s 2007 goal against Getafe were inevitable. That iconic moment, often referred to as the “Ankara Messi” goal due to the passionate Spanish commentary, saw a young Messi dribble past half the Getafe team before rounding the goalkeeper to score. The similarities between that goal and his solo effort against Montreal were striking: the same effortless dribbling, the same ability to navigate through tight spaces, and the same clinical finishing. While the 2007 goal came in Barcelona’s blue and red, this latest masterpiece was delivered in Inter Miami’s vibrant pink, a symbol of Messi’s new chapter in the MLS.
The “Ankara Messi” moniker has become synonymous with moments of individual brilliance, and this latest goal only adds to the legend. Social media platforms like X buzzed with clips of the goal, with fans marveling at how Messi continues to produce such moments at his age. The term “Ankara Messi 2.0” trended worldwide, encapsulating the nostalgia and admiration for a player who refuses to slow down.
Inter Miami’s Resurgence: A Team on the Rise
While Messi was the undeniable star of the show, Inter Miami’s overall performance against Montreal highlighted their potential as a team. The contributions of players like Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia underscored the squad’s depth and ability to step up in crucial moments. The team’s ability to recover from an early deficit and dominate the second half showcased their resilience and tactical discipline.
Under the guidance of coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino, Inter Miami has been building a cohesive unit around Messi’s brilliance. The addition of talented players like Alba, Allende, and Segovia has given the team a balanced attack, capable of competing with the best in the MLS. The 4-1 victory over Montreal was a statement of intent, signaling that Miami is a serious contender in the league.
The Bigger Picture: Messi’s MLS Legacy
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has transformed the MLS landscape. His arrival brought unprecedented attention to the league, with fans flocking to stadiums and viewership numbers soaring. His on-field contributions have been equally significant, with goals, assists, and moments of magic becoming a regular feature of Inter Miami’s matches. The Montreal game was just the latest example of how Messi continues to elevate the MLS, both as a player and as a global ambassador for the sport.
Messi’s impact extends beyond the pitch. His presence has inspired a new generation of American soccer fans and players, while his professionalism and work ethic have set a standard for his teammates. The MLS has long sought a figure to rival the global appeal of European football, and Messi has delivered that in spades.
Match Summary: Lionel Messi’s Masterclass – Inter Miami vs CF Montreal (July 6, 2025)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match Result | Inter Miami 4 – 1 CF Montreal |
| Venue & Date | July 6, 2025 – MLS Fixture |
| Man of the Match | Lionel Messi (2 Goals, 1 Assist) |
| Early Setback | 2’ – Prince Owusu scored after intercepting Messi’s misplaced pass, giving Montreal a 1-0 lead |
| Goalkeeper Highlights | Jonathan Sirois (Montreal): Brilliant saves vs Alba, Allende, Segovia in 1st half |
| Inter Miami Equalizer | 33’ – Tadeo Allende scored via Messi’s precise assist |
| Messi’s Iconic Solo Goal | 40’ – Messi dribbled past 5 defenders and scored a wonder goal reminiscent of his 2007 “Ankara Messi” strike against Getafe |
| Second Half Highlights | 60’ – Telasco Segovia scored a stunner (from outside box, off the crossbar) |
| Messi’s Second Goal (Brace) | 72’ – Messi regained possession in the box and smashed it in to complete his brace |
| Final Scoreline | Inter Miami 4 – 1 CF Montreal |
| Match Impact | Miami’s third consecutive MLS win after Club World Cup disappointment |
| Tactical Shift | Messi dropped deeper to orchestrate play, enabling Allende and Segovia to shine |
| Physical Brilliance at 38 | Maintains pace, agility, and dribbling – Solo goal stunned global audience |
| Ankara Messi 2.0 | The solo goal drew worldwide comparisons to Messi’s 2007 Getafe goal – “Ankara Messi” trended globally |
| Team Dynamics | Alba, Allende, Segovia, and Messi formed a dynamic attacking unit under coach Tata Martino |
| Leadership Role | Messi guided team’s tempo, mentored younger teammates, and inspired a comeback after early error |
| MLS Impact | Massive surge in attendance, viewership, and youth participation since Messi’s arrival in 2023 |
| Cultural Significance | “Ankara Messi 2.0” became a viral moment on social media – solidifying Messi’s legacy in American soccer history |
| Legacy Statement | This performance reaffirmed Messi as the GOAT, still producing moments of magic at 38 |
| Post-Match Reactions | Global admiration, social media buzz, praise from fans, pundits, and former players |
| What’s Next for Inter Miami | Continued push for MLS dominance, building momentum for playoffs with Messi leading the charge |
Why This Moment Matters
Messi’s performance against CF Montreal was more than just a great game—it was a reminder of why he is considered the greatest of all time. At a time when many questioned whether he could maintain his elite level in the latter stages of his career, Messi answered with a display that combined the exuberance of his youth with the wisdom of his experience. The solo goal, in particular, was a microcosm of his career: fearless, creative, and utterly unstoppable.
For Inter Miami, the victory was a crucial step in their journey to establish themselves as an MLS powerhouse. For Messi, it was another chapter in a career filled with unforgettable moments. For fans, it was a chance to witness history in the making, a reminder that even at 38, Lionel Messi remains a force of nature.
Conclusion: The Legend of Lionel Messi Continues
As the final whistle blew on July 6, 2025, Inter Miami celebrated a comprehensive 4-1 victory, but it was Lionel Messi who stole the headlines. His stunning solo goal and brace against CF Montreal were a testament to his enduring brilliance, a performance that evoked memories of his prime while showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in a new league. The “Ankara Messi 2.0” moment will be replayed and celebrated for years to come, a symbol of a player who continues to defy time and expectations.
For Inter Miami, the win was a statement of intent, a sign that they are ready to compete at the highest level. For Messi, it was another opportunity to remind the world why he is a footballing icon. As he continues to dazzle in the MLS, one thing is clear: the legend of Lionel Messi is far from over.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Lionel Messi’s Magic vs CF Montreal
Q1. What was the final score of the Inter Miami vs CF Montreal match on July 6, 2025?
A: Inter Miami defeated CF Montreal with a convincing 4-1 scoreline in this Major League Soccer (MLS) clash.
Q2. Why is Lionel Messi’s performance in this match considered historic?
A: At 38 years old, Messi scored a brilliant solo goal and completed a brace, delivering one of his finest performances in the MLS. His solo goal drew instant comparisons to his legendary 2007 “Ankara Messi” goal against Getafe.
Q3. How did the match begin and what challenges did Inter Miami face early on?
A: CF Montreal took a shock 1-0 lead just 2 minutes into the match after Messi’s mispass was intercepted by Prince Owusu, who scored. Montreal also dominated the opening half-hour with tight defense and superb goalkeeping.
Q4. How did Lionel Messi contribute beyond scoring?
A: Messi played a deeper playmaker role, assisting Tadeo Allende’s equalizer and controlling the tempo. His vision and leadership turned the match around after a tough start.
Q5. Can you describe Messi’s solo goal that is being compared to the “Ankara Messi” moment?
A: In the 40th minute, Messi picked up the ball near the right wing, dribbled past five defenders with breathtaking agility, briefly lost and regained possession, and smashed the ball into the top corner—echoing his iconic solo goal from 2007.
Q6. What was the significance of Messi’s brace in the match?
A: Messi’s second goal sealed the 4-1 win and demonstrated his relentless drive, skill, and composure, further cementing his influence and impact on the game even in the final stages of his career.
Q7. Who else played key roles in Inter Miami’s victory?
A: Besides Messi, Tadeo Allende scored the equalizer, and Telasco Segovia netted a stunning goal in the second half. Jordi Alba also contributed to attacking efforts early in the match.
Q8. How has Messi adapted to playing in the MLS at 38?
A: Messi continues to defy age, showcasing top-tier fitness, control, and tactical awareness. His ability to impact games both as a scorer and creator has been key to Inter Miami’s resurgence.
Q9. What does the term “Ankara Messi 2.0” mean?
A: It’s a phrase coined by fans on social media after Messi’s Montreal solo goal, referencing the iconic 2007 goal nicknamed “Ankara Messi” due to its famous Spanish commentary. It symbolizes a repeat of genius at a later stage in his career.
Q10. What impact has Messi had on Inter Miami and MLS as a whole?
A: Messi has elevated the MLS’s global visibility, boosted stadium attendance, increased youth interest in soccer, and transformed Inter Miami into genuine title contenders. His presence is redefining American football culture.
Q11. What does this victory mean for Inter Miami’s season?
A: This marked their third consecutive league win, helping the team bounce back from a disappointing Club World Cup campaign. It’s a vital step toward securing a strong playoff position.
Q12. How did coach Tata Martino utilize Messi in this match?
A: Martino allowed Messi to drop into a deeper playmaking role, empowering him to dictate the game’s rhythm. The tactical flexibility enabled Inter Miami to break down Montreal’s pressing and turn the game in their favor.
Q13. What’s next for Messi and Inter Miami?
A: With rising form and squad synergy, Inter Miami is expected to challenge for the top spots in the MLS. Fans eagerly await more magic from Messi as the season progresses.
Q14. How did the football community react to Messi’s solo goal?
A: The goal went viral on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with the term “Ankara Messi 2.0” trending globally. Players, fans, and pundits praised it as one of the greatest goals in MLS history.
Q15. Why is this moment important in Lionel Messi’s career?
A: It proved that even nearing 40, Messi remains a world-class talent. The goal symbolizes the harmony of his youthful flair and matured intelligence, reinforcing his status as the greatest of all time (GOAT).