Why Lionel Messi allowed Inter Miami team-mate to take penalty - with Mateo Silvetti fluffing his lines before 'abnormal' Argentine GOAT wrapped up vital MLS win

Argentine GOAT Messi had already been among the goals, putting Inter Miami 2-1 in front, when they were presented with a glorious opportunity to hit the net from 12 yards. Rather than take charge himself, the Herons’ talismanic captain presented new arrival Silvetti with an opportunity to open his account in South Florida.

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The 19-year-old - who is a Rosario native, just like Messi - struck the woodwork but Javier Mascherano had no complaints with seeing his skipper show commendable humility and leadership skills. Inter Miami’s head coach said: "Leo has done that many times during his career, giving chances like that to players who need the goals more than he does."

Messi went on to score his second of the game in the 85th minute, seeing Inter Miami to a 3-2 win, and has 22 efforts to his name through as many games this season. Mascherano added: "Another normal night for Leo, which is totally abnormal for any other player.

"Messi’s ability not only to score, but to create plays for his team, to find situations and carry the team on his shoulders when we needed him most and were having difficulties, that is what we always say it is an advantage to have him and we were able to benefit from that."

Messi, who now leads the MLS Golden Boot race, also has 12 assists this season. He scored a further eight goals across CONCACAF Champions Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Leagues Cup competition, with a lucrative contract extension being mooted for the all-time great at Chase Stadium.