Lionel Messi’s sensational Inter Miami goal stuns social media, with Pat McAfee joking he ‘scored from the parking lot’ while JJ Watt calls the World Cup winner ‘unbelievable’

Lionel Messi’s ninth Inter Miami goal was arguably his best yet, judging by the wild reaction on social media Tuesday night.

Messi scored from about 35 yards out to put Miami 2-0 up in the first half against the Philadelphia Union.

After receiving a pass from Josef Martinez, Messi moved forward unimpeded and sent flying with an ambitious shot from long range.

But his left-footed shot was hit so sweetly that it whistled into the far corner and beyond reach of helpless Union goalkeeper Andre Blake.

Pat McAfee watched the game – the “other” football – and was shocked.

“MESSI JUST SCORE FROM THE PARKING LOT,” McAfee wrote on Twitter.

JJ Watt, learning about football following his recent investment in English Premier League side Burnley, could do a lot worse than keep watching Messi in Miami.

‘Messie. Every time. Incredible.’ Watt wrote in surprise on Twitter.

Former USA international soccer player Herc Gomez tweeted, “NINE GOALS FOR MESSI. Nine. Come on. He’s on a completely different level than everyone else in this league.’

Messi’s goal put Miami 2-0 up in the Leagues Cup tie in Philadelphia after striker Josef Martinez put the team ahead in the third minute.

Messi’s impact on the Miami team cannot be underestimated – Miami has been the worst team in Major League Soccer, but since Messi’s arrival they have completely transformed.

Messi himself has yet to play in the MLS – he has only played in the Leagues Cup – but Miami has swept every team it faces with Messi in the starting line-up.