On January 18th, excitement buzzed through Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas as Inter Miami CF faced off against Club América in a highly anticipated preseason friendly match. The game had all the elements of a classic soccer showdown, including goals, tension, and even a dramatic penalty shootout that sent Inter Miami fans home with big smiles!
Messi’s Stellar Performance
Star player Lionel Messi made waves once again, scoring his first goal of the 2025 preseason in the 34th minute. The goal came from a powerful header, showcasing Messi’s skill and ability to seize opportunities. Assisted by his former Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, Messi’s goal not only lifted the spirits of his team but also fired up the crowd, who cheered wildly in response.
Match Highlights
The match wasn’t just about Messi, though. Inter Miami showed true determination throughout the game. Initially, Club América took the lead with a goal from Henry Martín. But Inter Miami didn’t back down! They fought back, with Tomás Avilés scoring a dramatic equalizer in the closing moments, tying the game 2-2.
- Messi scored his first preseason goal in the 34th minute.
- Club América led twice but couldn’t maintain their advantage.
- Avilés’ late equalizer brought the game to a nail-biting finish.
The Deciding Penalty Shootout
With the match tied, the tension in the stadium reached new heights as it moved to a penalty shootout. This was the moment to shine for young players and seasoned veterans alike. Rocco Ríos Novo, Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, displayed incredible skill, making crucial saves against Club América’s attempts. Meanwhile, Santi Morales stepped up and scored the decisive penalty kick, sealing the victory for Miami with a thrilling 3-2 win in the shootout.
Messi’s Viral Celebration
After scoring, Messi celebrated in a way that captured everyone’s attention. His exultant dance was reminiscent of Argentina’s glorious World Cup victory, sparking joy among fans and going viral online almost instantly. This celebration showcased not only his talent on the field but also his infectious love for the game.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
This win marks a strong start for Inter Miami as they prepare for their upcoming MLS and Concacaf Champions Cup seasons. With more preseason matches scheduled in Peru, Panama, and Honduras, the team is gearing up for an exciting year ahead. Fans can look forward to more incredible moments from Messi and the rest of the team, who aim to build on their preseason successes.
Conclusion
As Inter Miami CF triumphed over Club América with a hard-fought 3-2 victory in penalties, it’s clear that the new season holds great promise for this dynamic team, especially with Lionel Messi leading the charge. The energy of the fans, the skill of the players, and the unpredictability of soccer all contributed to an unforgettable match. Who knows what thrilling moments await as the season unfolds? Fans will definitely want to stay tuned!