Inter Miami Wins Preseason Opener in Penalty Shootout Against Club América

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Inter Miami CF kicked off their 2025 preseason with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Club América on Saturday night at Allegiant Stadium, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout. The match marked the managerial debut of Javier Mascherano, who took over as head coach in November 2024.

The Herons, lining up in a 4-4-2 formation, faced early pressure from Club América, who opened the scoring in the 31st minute. Henry Martín tapped in a cross from former winger Brian Rodríguez to give the Liga MX champions the lead. However, Inter Miami responded quickly, with Lionel Messi heading home a precise cross from Luis Suárez in the 34th minute.

Club América regained the lead in the 53rd minute when Israel Reyes capitalized on a defensive error, slotting the ball past Inter Miami’s new goalkeeper, Rocco Rios Novo. The Herons fought back in the dying moments of the match, with defender Tomás “Toto” Avilés scoring a header off a corner kick to level the score at 2-2.

The game went to penalties, where Rios Novo made two crucial saves, and 17-year-old homegrown player Dylan Butler converted the decisive spot-kick to seal the win for Inter Miami. “It was a great test for us,” said Mascherano after the match. “The players showed character and resilience, which is exactly what we need heading into the season.”

Club América will now return to Mexico City to resume their Liga MX campaign, while Inter Miami continues their preseason tour with matches in Peru and Panama. The Herons will face Universitario de Deportes on Jan. 29 at Estadio Monumental “U” in Lima before traveling to Panama to play Sporting San Miguelito.

Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS regular season begins on Feb. 22, with the team aiming to build on their strong preseason performances. Messi, who contributed 36 goals and assists in just 19 matches last season, will be a key figure as the club looks to compete for silverware under Mascherano’s leadership.