In an exciting start to their 2025 preseason, Inter Miami CF faced off against Club América at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on January 18th. The match was thrilling, ending in a 2-2 draw before Inter Miami triumphed 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout. One of the night’s biggest highlights was Lionel Messi, who scored and celebrated in a way that quickly went viral online, reminding fans of Argentina’s World Cup glory. This match served as a key opportunity for the team to prepare ahead of a busy season ahead.
Messi’s Goal Lights Up Allegiant Stadium
Fans filled Allegiant Stadium, eagerly awaiting Lionel Messi’s return to the pitch. Messi did not disappoint. He scored a stunning header in the 34th minute, giving Inter Miami an early lead. The crowd erupted as he celebrated, recreating the passion and joy he felt during Argentina’s World Cup triumphs.
A Dramatic Equalizer in the Final Moments
Just when it looked like Inter Miami would hold on to their lead, Club América responded. In a nail-biting twist, Toto Aviles scored a header in stoppage time, leveling the score at 2-2. This late-game drama kept fans on their toes, highlighting the fierce competition between both teams.
The Pressure of Penalty Kicks
After the intense 90 minutes of regular play, the game moved to penalties. Each kick was filled with tension as fans held their breath. Inter Miami excelled, with Santiago Morales, a young talent making his First Team debut, successfully scoring the winning penalty. Club América struggled, missing their first three attempts, handing victory to Inter Miami.
Upcoming Challenges for Inter Miami
This exciting match was just the beginning for Inter Miami, who have a challenging preseason tour ahead, including matches in Peru, Panama, and Honduras. They also have their eyes set on the MLS season opener against New York City FC on February 22nd, where they hope to continue their winning streak.
The Buzz Around Messi
Lionel Messi’s impact on Inter Miami is undeniable, not just in goals scored but in how he energizes the fans and the team. His celebration following the goal became a talking point, as fans shared videos and images across social media platforms, generating significant buzz. Inter Miami is grateful for Messi’s presence, especially as they gear up for major competitions like the Concacaf Champions Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
Final Thoughts
This match was more than just a preseason game; it was a showcase of skill, determination, and the rising talents within Inter Miami. Fans are excited to see how the team will perform in the upcoming season, especially with world-class players like Messi leading the way. With a thrilling start to their preseason, Inter Miami hopes to build on this momentum and look forward to achieving new heights in 2025.
