In a thrilling kickoff to their 2025 preseason, Inter Miami faced off against renowned Liga MX champions Club América at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on January 18. The game, filled with breathtaking moments and a touch of drama, ended in a nail-biting 3-2 victory for Inter Miami after a penalty shootout, showcasing the team’s resilience and potential as they prepare for their upcoming MLS season.
Messi’s Magic in the Air
Inter Miami’s superstar, Lionel Messi, did not disappoint fans who eagerly gathered for this highly awaited friendly match. He scored a spectacular header in the 34th minute, marking a memorable moment for the players and supporters alike. His contribution on the field reminded everyone why he is considered one of the greatest in soccer history. The crowd erupted in cheers as Messi celebrated, capturing the hearts of many across social media platforms.
Late Drama Brings Club América Back
As the match progressed, Club América responded with determination. They managed to score their first of two goals in the game, but Messi’s goal set the stage for a gripping contest. Inter Miami held the lead until the dying minutes of the match when Toto Aviles from Club América scored a dramatic equalizer in the 92nd minute. This goal brought the score to 2-2, sending the match into a penalty shootout and adding a serious twist for both teams.
Peppering Penalty Kicks
The tension rose as players prepared for the dramatic shootout. Inter Miami’s Santiago Morales, a talented academy product making his first-team debut, stepped up to take the decisive kick. His kick broke the tie, and the team secured a 3-2 victory as Club América missed its first three penalty attempts. The camaraderie and team spirit displayed during these moments underscored Inter Miami’s strength as they head into the season.
Viewing the Action Live
This match not only excited fans attending live but was also streamed for free on Apple TV. Thousands tuned in from their homes, eager to witness Messi’s performance alongside his teammates in this fan-favorite preseason match. With thousands of fans either at the stadium or behind screens, the atmosphere felt electric as supporters cheered for their teams.
A Solid Start to the Season
Following the match, coaches and players expressed their enthusiasm about the strong performance and high spirits of the team, highlighting key takeaways that will influence their strategy going forward. As the team gears up for upcoming matches in their five-game preseason tour, fans are excited to see how Messi and his teammates build on this momentum.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
After this exhilarating win, Inter Miami continues its preseason tour, taking crucial steps toward the new season. Supporters are eager to see how the team evolves and what strategies they develop in the next matches. With Messi setting the stage and younger talent like Morales stepping into the spotlight, the upcoming matches look promising.
| Match Details | Inter Miami | Club América |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 3 | 2 |
| Goals by Inter Miami | Messi (34’), Aviles (92’) | — |
| Penalty Shootout Winner | Morales | — |
| Date | January 18, 2025 | |
| Venue | Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas | |
The excitement is far from over, as Inter Miami prepares to face more challengers during their preseason journey. Fans everywhere are hopeful for this season to be unforgettable!