The Rise of MLS: A New Era for American Soccer 
Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance as Inter Miami kicked off their preseason with a thrilling victory over Club América in Las Vegas. The match, held at Allegiant Stadium, ended in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time, with Messi scoring the first goal for Miami.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi scored Inter Miami’s first goal of the 2025 preseason.
- The match ended 2-2, leading to a penalty shootout where Miami triumphed 3-2.
- The game featured a controversial celebration from Messi that sparked reactions from Mexican fans.
The game began with Club América taking an early lead through Henry Martín in the 31st minute. However, Messi quickly responded, leveling the score just three minutes later. He headed in a precise cross from Luis Suárez, demonstrating the chemistry between the former FC Barcelona teammates.
The second half saw Club América regain the lead with a goal from Israel Reyes in the 52nd minute. Inter Miami’s new head coach, Javier Mascherano, made strategic substitutions, including taking Messi off midway through the second half to refresh the squad.
As the match approached its conclusion, Miami found a lifeline in stoppage time. Tomás Avilés scored a powerful header from a corner kick delivered by Julian Gressel, forcing the game into penalties.
In the penalty shootout, Miami emerged victorious, winning 3-2 in sudden death. The decisive penalty was scored by 17-year-old Santi Morales, marking a memorable debut for the young player. Rocco Ríos Novo, Miami’s new goalkeeper, made crucial saves during the shootout, solidifying his place in the team.
Messi’s goal celebration, however, drew attention and controversy. After scoring, he pointed to his name on his jersey and gestured towards the crowd, referencing Argentina’s World Cup victories over Mexico. This act did not sit well with many Mexican fans, leading to a mix of admiration and backlash.
Despite the heated atmosphere, Mascherano remained focused on the positives, praising the team’s resilience and Messi’s impact on the game. The match not only highlighted Messi’s continued prowess on the field but also set a promising tone for Inter Miami’s upcoming season.
As the team prepares for their next matches in Peru, Panama, and Honduras, fans are eager to see how Messi and his teammates will build on this exciting start to the preseason. The victory against Club América serves as a reminder of the star power and competitive spirit that Messi brings to Inter Miami as they aim for success in the 2025 season.
Sources
- Messi Shines as Inter Miami Beat Club América Via Penalty, News Central TV.
- Francis Suarez’s final State of the City highlights Inter Miami stadium, The Haitian Times.
- Messi angers Mexican fans with goal celebration in Las Vegas | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Messi, Inter Miami vs. Club America: Live updates. recap | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Lionel Messi scores in Inter Miami preseason win over Club América | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
