Lionel Messi and Inter Miami Begin Preseason with a High-Profile Friendly Against Club América

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami kicked off their 2025 MLS preseason preparations with a blockbuster friendly against Mexican giants Club América. The match, held on Saturday, January 18, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, marked the start of Miami’s preseason tour, "The Americans Preseason Tour."

This preseason clash was more than just a warm-up game; it was an important test for the Herons under new head coach Javier Mascherano. The former Argentine national team star and longtime teammate of Messi is looking to shape Miami into a formidable force for the upcoming season.

Inter Miami’s Preseason Tour Highlights

Inter Miami's preseason journey will take them across the Americas, starting with the match against Club América. After the Las Vegas showdown, Miami is set to face Peruvian champions Club Universitario de Deportes on January 29 at Estadio Monumental in Lima, Peru. The final stop will be on February 2, where they’ll play Sporting San Miguelito at Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez in Panama City, Panama.

These games are essential for the team to gear up for their first competitive clash of the year, a Concacaf Champions Cup first-round match against Sporting Kansas City on February 22.

A Look at Inter Miami’s Current Squad

Inter Miami's 2025 roster boasts some of the biggest names in global football, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. With experienced veterans and promising talents like Facundo Farías and Benjamin Cremaschi, the team is gearing up to dominate both MLS and international competitions.

Under Mascherano’s leadership, Miami hopes to address their defensive vulnerabilities that cost them key knockout matches last season, despite being crowned MLS regular-season champions by winning the Supporters' Shield.

Can Messi Continue to Dominate?

Lionel Messi, often regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time, is entering the second year of his two-and-a-half-year contract with Inter Miami. In his debut MLS season, Messi delivered spectacular performances, scoring 34 goals and providing 18 assists across 39 appearances. His efforts earned him the MLS MVP award and cemented Miami's status as a team to watch.

However, questions about Messi’s future linger as his contract expires at the end of 2025. With injuries and international commitments affecting his availability, the coming seasons may determine whether Messi extends his stay in Miami or explores other opportunities.

2024: A Season of Mixed Fortunes

Inter Miami’s 2024 season was a historic one, as the team clinched its first major trophy by winning the Supporters’ Shield. However, the campaign was not without its challenges. Despite a record-breaking 74-point regular season, the Herons faced disappointing exits in key tournaments, including the Concacaf Champions Cup and the MLS playoffs.

The upcoming season is a chance for redemption, and the preseason matches will be crucial in setting the tone for a successful 2025.

Where to Watch the Inter Miami vs. Club América Match

For fans eager to catch Messi and Miami in action, the match against Club América was streamed for free on Apple TV. Allegiant Stadium, the home of the NFL's Las Vegas Raiders, provided a stunning venue for this high-stakes preseason clash.

What’s Next for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami’s ambitions extend far beyond MLS. With a new stadium, Freedom Park, set to open in 2026, the team is positioning itself as a global soccer powerhouse. The club’s performance in 2025 will play a key role in maintaining momentum leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring a massive boost to soccer in the United States.

Final Thoughts

The journey ahead for Inter Miami is filled with excitement and challenges. With Messi leading the charge and Mascherano at the helm, the Herons have the talent and ambition to make 2025 a memorable year. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matches and unforgettable moments as Inter Miami sets its sights on domestic and international success.

Reference from:-https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mls/2025/01/18/inter-miami-club-america-lionel-messi-score-highlights/77728725007/