Messi's icy heroics: Inter Miami defeats Sporting KC 1‑0

Leo Messi once again demonstrated his exceptional skills by netting the winning goal for Inter Miami in the opening match of the first round of the CONCACAF Champions League. The match against Sporting Kansas City ended 1-0 in favour of the Florida team. The match occurred in particularly harsh weather conditions, with temperatures plummeting to minus 17 degree Celsius.

The fixture, initially set for the previous day, was postponed due to a snowstorm. It eventually took place amid strong winds, which made the perceived temperature feel like minus 11 degrees. Despite the conditions, over 15,000 fans braved the elements to support their teams. Many attendees wore multiple layers to shield themselves from the biting cold.

Messi scored in the 56th minute of the match. The Argentinian, after receiving a long ball from Sergio Busquets, skilfully evaded the defenders to score an unstoppable goal. Sporting coach Peter Vermes acknowledged, "There's one guy that can turn the game over, and he did."

Javier Mascherano, the coach of Inter Miami, expressed his pride in his players' performance. "I am very proud of the team because it is impossible to play in these conditions. It is not human," said Mascherano, as quoted by ESPN.

Inter Miami is now gearing up to launch their campaign in the MLS league, where they will face New York City FC in their opening match. Last season, the Florida team excelled during the regular season but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs following a defeat to Atlanta United.