LAS VEGAS — Lionel Messi scored and showcased his extraordinary skills in the first half as Inter Miami won 3-2 on penalties against Mexican giants Club America after a a highly contested match which ended with a score of 2-2 at the end of regulation time on Saturday evening.
Messi’s goal, a remarkable header in the 34th minute, leveled the score at 1-1 after skillfully converting a pass from Luis Suarez. The crowd then sang songs in praise of Messi, but their enthusiasm was quickly eclipsed by some of the Club América supporters who reacted with whistles.
The striker’s iconic goal came shortly after a moment of disillusionment when he nearly scored from close range, sending an effort over the bar just 12 minutes before. Messi was also awarded two free kicks in the first half before being substituted in the 66th minute.
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This match marked the start of Inter Miami’s exhibition season, with this being the first of five friendlies that will take place in Central and South America. The club’s regular season campaign begins on February 22 against Sporting Kansas City.
Inter Miami viewed this friendly against prestigious Mexico City-based Club América as an important early test under new coach Javier Mascherano, a compatriot of Messi’s on the Argentine national team.
Club América boasts an impressive track record, being the reigning champions of LIGA MX for the third time in a row and the most successful club in the league with a total of 15 championships.
-This MLS season is particularly significant, as it could potentially be the last for Messi, whose contract expires at the end of this campaign. Despite being at a crossroads in his prestigious career, Messi continues to shine as a major MLS player, attracting unparalleled attention.
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Having won the league MVP award last season with an impressive tally of 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 games, Messi has maintained his deadly form, contributing 21 goals and 18 assists in 25 appearances since joining Inter Miami.
The match began with Henry Martin giving Club América the lead with a goal in the 31st minute, but Messi reacted just three minutes later to equalize. The Mexican team regained the lead in the second half thanks to a goal from Israel Reyes, who found the net from a corner to make it 2-1.
However, Inter Miami showed their resilience by equalizing in the final seconds of the match, with Tomas Aviles heading home from a corner, paving the way to victory on penalties.
