According to reports from Notícias ao Minuto, Lionel Messi delivered a decisive performance for Inter Miami to secure a 2-0 victory against Cruz Azul, capturing the CONCACAF Champions Cup. At 39 years old, the Argentine forward opened the scoring with a header in the 24th minute following a cross from Luis Suárez, before later setting up Casemiro for the team’s second goal.
Inter Miami Coach Praises Messi’s Leadership and Impact
Following the final whistle at Nu Stadium in Miami, Florida, Inter Miami head coach Kily González lauded the veteran player’s contributions. According to Notícias ao Minuto, González recalled a pre-match promise from the forward, stating that Messi had told him he would enter and leave as a champion.
González strongly endorsed the player for individual honors. “There is no one else like him. I have not the slightest doubt that the Ballon d’Or must be for him,” González told journalists, as reported by Notícias ao Minuto, highlighting both his on-field performance at the World Cup and his personal values.
David Beckham Backs Ballon d’Or Case for Messi
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham echoed the praise, stating that the forward’s sustained success at age 39 is unprecedented. According to Notícias ao Minuto, Beckham argued that the nomination is well-deserved rather than a matter of luck, pointing to his strong performances throughout the global tournament.
“He arrived at the World Cup at 39 years of age, and to show up in every game the way he showed up… That is special,” Beckham said, according to Notícias ao Minuto, adding his opinion that the veteran star should win the award.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or Contenders
The accolade in question features a crowded field of 30 nominees released by France Football in August. According to Notícias ao Minuto, the candidate list includes four Portuguese players: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United, alongside Paris Saint-Germain trio Nuno Mendes, João Neves, and Vitinha.
Other notable names on the shortlist published by France Football include Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Vinícius Júnior, Lamine Yamal, and Rodri Hernández, alongside Messi and his Argentina teammate Lautaro Martínez.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the CONCACAF Champions Cup match for Inter Miami?
According to Notícias ao Minuto, Inter Miami defeated Cruz Azul 2-0, with Lionel Messi scoring the opening goal and providing the assist for the second goal.
Which players did Kily González and David Beckham endorse for the Ballon d’Or?
According to Notícias ao Minuto, both Inter Miami coach Kily González and co-owner David Beckham strongly backed Lionel Messi to win the Ballon d’Or.
How many nominees are on the France Football Ballon d’Or shortlist?
According to Notícias ao Minuto, the France Football list features 30 candidates for the 2026 award.
Join the Discussion
What are your thoughts on the 2026 Ballon d’Or race? Leave a comment below to share your perspective on this season’s top contenders.
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