Lionel Messi debut: Inter Miami fans go WILD as World Cup winner enters play
Lionel Messi's much-anticipated MLS debut whipped up the hysteria expected as he came off the bench for Inter Miami.
Messi started from the bench against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup fixture but coach Tata Martino brought the Argentine superstar onto the pitch in the 53rd minute.
His former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets joined him on the bench and came on seconds behind Messi. as the South Florida side began its first Group J game. As he warmed up, chants of 'Messi' rang around the stadium.
Fans turned up early in anticipation of seeing the Argentine as supporters were queuing before the gates even opened, an hour and a half before kick off.
They enjoyed events at the fan zone, with lines sprawling out of the team store and tailgating being enjoyed by many three hours from kickoff.
Messi arrived at the stadium at a similar time to great fanfare as he struggled to make it down the tunnel without being clamored by fans. He was stopped for a few selfies, including by Cruz Azul staff.
Jorge Mas emerged on to the pitch as fans filled the stands in Fort Lauderdale. The Inter Miami co-owner conducted the crowd and lapped up the acclaim for his latest feat. He has dreamt of this day since before Inter Miami kicked a ball.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner took part in his first training session with the team Tuesday, two days after his glitzy unveiling in front of a full house at the team's DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Unbridled excitement at Messi's arrival on-pitch came as a surprise to no one.
Inter Miami announced late on Thursday that tickets for the Cruz Azul game had officially sold out, with not a spare seat available for the first time this season.
Tickets for the event severely spiked prior to confirmation of
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