Dejan Joveljic's 75th-minute goal initially seemed to secure a victory for the Los Angeles Galaxy against Inter Miami CF, following a rebound from a Riqui Puig shot. However, Mark Delgado's second yellow card reduced the Galaxy to 10 men, changing the dynamics of the match.
In stoppage time, Inter Miami's Lionel Messi capitalized on a quick exchange with Jordi Alba, unleashing a left-footer into the upper part of the net, securing a dramatic 1-1 draw and preserving Inter Miami's unbeaten record (1-0-1, 4 points).
Despite the Galaxy's dominance with a 23-11 shot advantage and nine shots on target, Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender's eight saves frustrated the home side.
The first half ended without any goals, with Puig missing a penalty kick opportunity for the Galaxy in the 13th minute. Another chance came in the 29th minute when Puig's powerful right-footed shot was deflected by Callender and hit the crossbar.
In the 66th minute, Miki Yamane hit the right post with a shot for the Galaxy, emphasizing their struggle to convert chances. Inter Miami's Diego Gomez also had a close-range opportunity in the 69th minute, but the match remained scoreless until Joveljic's goal.
Messi's late equalizer showcased his clinical finishing, denying the Galaxy a win in their season opener despite their offensive efforts and shots on target.
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