In a nail-biting match held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Inter Miami CF edged out Liga MX champions Club América in a thrilling preseason friendly on January 18th, winning 3-2 in a penalty shootout. Fans were treated to an exciting game filled with impressive plays, flashy goals, and memorable moments, especially the performance of soccer superstar Lionel Messi, who scored a goal and celebrated in a manner that caught everyone’s attention.
Lionel Messi Leads the Charge
Known for his incredible skills, Messi wasted no time showcasing his talent in this match. After Club América’s Henry Martín scored the opening goal in the 30th minute, Messi equalized in the 34th with a magnificent header. The iconic play was set up by teammates Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, two fellow former Barcelona stars now playing for Inter Miami.
Exciting Moments in the Match
- Game Highlights: The tension was palpable as the teams battled back and forth. Inter Miami’s Toto Aviles tied the game in the 92nd minute, sending it to penalties.
- Pivotal Penalties: The shootout was intense, with Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo emerging as a hero by saving two penalty attempts from Club América.
- Young Stars Shine: 17-year-old Santiago Morales scored the winning penalty for Inter Miami, proving that the team has a bright future ahead with talented young players stepping up in crucial moments.
Messi’s Unforgettable Celebration
After scoring his goal, Messi celebrated in style, pointing to his jersey and name, then raising three fingers. This gesture symbolized his achievements with the Argentine national team, where he won three major championships. The celebration quickly went viral, showcasing not only his talent but also his passion for the game and his history as a champion.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
As Inter Miami gears up for their upcoming season, they will play several more preseason matches before their MLS season opener on February 22nd. The team’s next match will be against Universitario de Deportes on January 29th, followed by other matches in Peru, Panama, and Honduras. These games are essential for building team chemistry and preparing for a competitive season ahead.
How to Catch the Action
Soccer fans can enjoy live coverage of Inter Miami’s matches on Apple TV, where they can tune in to see these thrilling games unfold. The team’s preseason is not just a time for practice, but a chance for fans to get excited about the games to come, especially with a player like Messi on the field.
Summary of the Match
| Team | Goals | Pens |
|---|---|---|
| Inter Miami | 2 | 3 |
| Club América | 2 | 2 |
This match against Club América was not just another exhibition; it was a showcase of talent, teamwork, and thrilling soccer that left fans eagerly looking forward to what Inter Miami will achieve as the new season approaches. With Messi leading the charge, there’s no telling how far this team can go!
