Inter Miami returned to action in a high-profile friendly against Club America of Mexicomarking their first match since their MLS playoff elimination and the end of the regular season. The game, held in Las Vegas, also featured the highly anticipated reunion of South American stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez in the Miami attack.
Messi made his mark with his first goal of the year, capping off a brilliant team sequence. The Argentine superstar connected on a precise header from a well-placed crossleveling the match at 1-1 after Inter Miami initially fell behind to a 31st-minute goal by Henry Martín. Watch the goal here:
New year, same story. ????
Suarez to Messi for the first @InterMiamiCF preseason goal of 2025.
The first half concluded with a 1-1 draw between Inter Miami and Club América. The Mexican side dominated possessionholding 66.1% compared to Miami’s 33.9%, and created several scoring opportunities. However, América struggled to capitalize on their chances in front of goal. Notably, this match marks the debut of Argentine head coach Javier Mascheranowho brings a fresh approach to Inter Miami’s tactics.
When was Messi’s last match?
Inter Miami wrapped up their 2024 season with mixed emotions. While they were eliminated in the MLS playoffs by Atlanta Unitedthe team achieved a significant milestone by winning the Supporters’ Shieldawarded to the league’s best regular-season team. Their championship hopes were dashed in the postseason, but it was a memorable year for the club.
-Lionel Messi’s final match of 2024, however, was not with Inter Miami. Instead, the World Cup-winning captain played for Argentina in a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Peru. In that game, Messi provided the assist for Lautaro Martínez’s decisive goal in a 1-0 victory.
see also
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami announce signing of another Argentine player ahead of 2025 MLS season
Messi’s 2024 season recap
Messi closed out his debut season in theUnited States with remarkable numbers: 22 matches played, 18 goals scored, and 17 assists. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and global soccer icon is now preparing for another exciting season with Inter Miami, as well as continuing his quest for World Cup qualification with the Argentine national team ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
