Messi Leads Inter Miami Against Club América in Las Vegas Showdown

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Soccer fans packed the Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, to witness a thrilling preseason friendly between Club América and Inter Miami, featuring global superstar Lionel Messi. The match marked the first of five preseason games for Inter Miami ahead of their Major League Soccer (MLS) season opener on Feb. 22 against New York City FC.

The game, held at the home of the NFL‘s Las Vegas Raiders, showcased a star-studded lineup for both teams. Club América, led by coach André Jardine, fielded key players like Henry Martín and Álvaro Fidalgo, while Inter Miami, under interim coach Javier Mascherano, featured Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets. The match kicked off at 8:27 p.m. EST, with fans eagerly anticipating the clash between the Mexican and American sides.

Inter Miami’s preseason schedule is packed, with their first official match set for Feb. 18 in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Sporting Kansas City. Meanwhile, Club América used the game to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Clausura 2025 season, having previously played with an alternate lineup in their first two matches.

The Allegiant Stadium, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, provided a spectacular backdrop for the friendly. Fans from both sides filled the stands, creating an electric atmosphere as the teams took the field. Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, continues to draw massive crowds wherever he plays, and this match was no exception.

Club América’s starting lineup included Luis Malagón in goal, supported by Kevin Álvarez, Israel Reyes, and Sebastián Cáceres in defense. Midfielders Jonathan Dos Santos and Álvaro Fidalgo aimed to control the tempo, while forwards Brian Rodríguez and Henry Martín led the attack. Inter Miami countered with Messi and Suárez up front, supported by Busquets and Jordi Alba in midfield.

The match began with an early chance for Club América, as Kevin Álvarez delivered a pass to Henry Martín, who was flagged offside. Despite the setback, both teams displayed sharp passing and tactical discipline, keeping the game competitive throughout.

This friendly not only served as a warm-up for both teams but also highlighted the growing popularity of soccer in the United States, particularly with the arrival of high-profile players like Messi. As the final whistle blew, fans left the stadium buzzing about the spectacle they had just witnessed.