Miguel Almirón Returns to Atlanta United: A Homecoming Celebration 
Inter Miami CF secured a thrilling victory against Club Universitario de Deportes in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw during their preseason match at the Estadio Monumental in Lima, Peru. The match, part of Inter Miami’s The Americas Preseason Tour, attracted an electric crowd of 80,000 fans, showcasing the immense popularity of Lionel Messi and his teammates in South America.
Key Takeaways
- Inter Miami won 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a scoreless regulation time.
- The match was held in front of a sold-out crowd at Estadio Monumental.
- All five Inter Miami players successfully converted their penalty kicks.
- Messi played 73 minutes but did not score.
- The victory marks Inter Miami’s second consecutive win in preseason under new coach Javier Mascherano.
Match Overview
The match began with both teams displaying strong defensive strategies, resulting in a goalless first half. Inter Miami, featuring stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets, struggled to break through Universitario’s defense. Despite several attempts, including free kicks taken by Messi, the first 90 minutes concluded without a goal.
The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with fans chanting and cheering for their teams. Messi, who received a hero’s welcome, was a focal point of attention, with local media dubbing him a deity in Peru. His presence alone drew significant crowds, and fans were eager to catch a glimpse of the soccer icon.
Penalty Shootout Drama
As the match moved to penalties, the tension in the stadium escalated. Inter Miami’s players stepped up confidently, with Julian Gressel, Santi Morales, David Ruiz, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Yannick Bright all converting their shots. Universitario’s Jairo Vélez was the only player to miss, sealing the victory for Inter Miami.
The penalty shootout results were as follows:
- Diego Churín (Universitario) – Goal
- Julian Gressel (Inter Miami) – Goal
- Horacio Calcaterra (Universitario) – Goal
- Santi Morales (Inter Miami) – Goal
- Jairo Vélez (Universitario) – Miss
- David Ruiz (Inter Miami) – Goal
- Jairo Concha (Universitario) – Goal
- Benjamin Cremaschi (Inter Miami) – Goal
- José Rivera (Universitario) – Goal
- Yannick Bright (Inter Miami) – Goal
Looking Ahead
Following this victory, Inter Miami will continue its preseason tour with a match against Sporting San Miguelito in Panama City, Panama. The team is eager to build on their success and further develop their chemistry under the guidance of coach Javier Mascherano. With several new players joining the squad, these matches are crucial for team cohesion as they prepare for the upcoming MLS season and international competitions.
As the preseason progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Messi and his teammates adapt to the challenges ahead, especially with the busy schedule that includes the FIFA World Cup later this year. The excitement surrounding Inter Miami’s tour in Latin America highlights the growing popularity of soccer in the region and the impact of star players like Messi on the sport’s global appeal.
Sources
- MATCH RECAP: Inter Miami CF Defeats Club Universitario in Penalties in a Packed Estadio Monumental in Lima, Peru | Inter Miami CF, Inter Miami CF.
- Messi scoreless, Inter Miami 3-1 over San Miguelito, recap | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Inter Miami’s arrival in Peru sparks Messi-mania on the streets – ESPN Video, ESPN.
- Messi, Inter Miami beat Universitario in PK shootout in Peru | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Messi in Peru: Inter Miami vs. Universitario score, highlights, USA Today.
