The 36-year-old Argentinian scored from outside the box to put Miami ahead of Nashville SC in the Leagues Cup final.

Fafa Picault equalized in the second half to force a penalty shootout.

Drake Callender saved Nashville goalie Elliot Panicco’s penalty shot to give Miami a 10-9 shootout victory.

Miami had the worst record in Major League Soccer this season before World Cup-winning striker Messi and former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets arrived last month.

They are now unbeaten in seven games on their route to winning the Leagues Cup, a tournament that includes MLS and Liga MX clubs from Mexico.

It was the club’s first trophy since its inception in 2020.

They also have a chance to reach another final when they face Cincinnati in the US Open Cup semi-finals on Wednesday.

Former Barcelona trio were important in the club’s turnaround, according to co-owner David Beckham: “It’s like watching a movie; you watch these players play, and everything about their play is emotionally beautiful.”

“The team is growing by leaps and bounds, and we are very happy,” Spain midfielder Busquets remarked.

“We’re putting together a good team, and then there’s Leo, who makes a difference because he’s the best in the world.”

The victory also marked the seventh time Messi, the tournament’s player of the tournament, has now won 44 trophies, more than any other player.