Lionel Messi Shines in Inter Miami’s Preseason Opener Against Club America

Lionel Messi made headlines once again as he scored a goal in Inter Miami’s thrilling preseason opener against Mexican powerhouse Club America. The match, held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, ended in a dramatic 3-2 victory for Miami after a penalty shootout, following a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Key Takeaways

• Messi scored his first goal of 2025, leveling the match at 1-1 in the first half.
• Inter Miami’s victory came after a tense penalty shootout, showcasing their resilience.
• The match marked the beginning of Inter Miami’s five-match preseason tour, under new coach Javier Mascherano.

Lionel Messi’s goal came in the 34th minute, a well-placed header from a Luis Suárez assist, which ignited cheers from the fans despite a mixed crowd. This goal was crucial as it equalized the score after Club America had taken the lead just three minutes earlier through Henry Martín.

The match was not just a test of skill but also a showcase of Messi’s enduring talent. He drew two free kicks in the first half and played a significant role in the team’s offensive strategy before being substituted in the second half.

Match Highlights

1. First Half
2. Second Half

The penalty shootout saw Inter Miami triumph 3-2, with goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo making two crucial saves. This victory is a promising start for the team as they prepare for the upcoming MLS season, which kicks off on February 22 against Sporting Kansas City.

Messi’s Continued Impact

Messi’s presence in Major League Soccer has been transformative. Since joining Inter Miami, he has not only elevated the team’s performance but also significantly boosted attendance figures across the league. In his first full season, MLS set an all-time attendance record, with over 11 million fans attending matches, a clear indication of Messi’s influence.

As the reigning MVP, Messi’s statistics speak volumes: he scored 20 goals and provided 16 assists in just 19 matches last season. His ability to draw crowds and generate excitement is unmatched, making him a pivotal figure in the league’s growth.

Looking Ahead

Inter Miami’s preseason tour will continue with matches in Central and South America, providing the team with valuable experience and preparation ahead of the regular season. With Messi leading the charge, fans are eager to see how the team will perform in the upcoming MLS campaign and whether this will be Messi’s final season in the league.

As the soccer world watches closely, one thing is certain: Lionel Messi’s impact on Inter Miami and Major League Soccer is profound and lasting.

Sources

• Lionel Messi scores goal as Inter Miami opens preseason play with friendly win over Club America | MLS | lancasteronline.com, LancasterOnline.
• Major League Soccer sets all-time attendance record in Lionel Messi’s first full season, AOL.com.
• Lionel Messi scores in Inter Miami preseason win over Club América | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.