Lionel Messi braved the Arctic freeze to fire Inter Miami to victory over Sporting KC on Wednesday night.

Rumours ahead of the CONCACAF Champions Cup first-round clash claimed that the Argentine genius was ready to skip the baltic conditions. The blistering cold showdown at Children’s Mercy Park was due to take place 24 hours earlier but was postponed due to extreme weather, with almost unbearable wind chills feeling as low as -28C.

CONCACAF said in a statement: "The decision to reschedule the match has been made to prioritize player and fan safety, and in close coordination with the two participating clubs and the local authorities." But after the stadium's pitch was cleared of snow, players wrapped up in protective gear to combat the -14C temperatures as they got the season underway.

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In the coldest game of Messi's career, the former Barcelona and PSG superstar overcame the severe weather to score the decisive goal in the 1-0 win. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner - kitted out in gloves, a neck warmer and thermal leggings - netted the winner inside 56 minutes by chesting a long ball from the majestic Sergio Busquets, swivelling through the Sporting defence before drilling a low shot into the far corner.

It was an ideal start for newly-appointed Javier Mascherano in his first competitive match as Inter Miami manager. The Barca icon will take charge of his first MLS game on Saturday against New York City FC.