On January 18, 2025, Lionel Messi found the net as Inter Miami began their pre-season with a penalty shootout victory against Mexico’s Club América in Las Vegas.
The match, held at the Allegiant Stadium, saw Club América take the lead through Henry Martin. However, Messi equalized in the 34th minute, heading in a cross from Luis Suárez. In the second half, Israel Reyes restored Club América’s lead in the 52nd minute. Inter Miami’s new coach, Javier Mascherano, substituted Messi in the 66th minute as part of several changes. The game seemed to be tilting in favor of Club América until Tomas Aviles scored a stoppage-time header, assisted by Julian Gressel’s precise corner, bringing the score to 2-2. The ensuing penalty shootout ended 3-2 in favor of Inter Miami after sudden death.
This match marks the beginning of Inter Miami’s preparations for the upcoming Major League Soccer season, with fans optimistic about the team’s prospects under Mascherano’s leadership.
