Lionel Messi and Inter Miami concluded their Major League Soccer preseason with a 1-1 draw against Messi's childhood club, Newell's Old Boys. This marked the first time the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner faced the club that he and Inter Miami coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino grew up with in Rosario, Argentina. Both Messi and Martino have deep connections to Newell's Old Boys, with Messi playing there as a child before joining FC Barcelona, and Martino having played and coached for the club, holding the record for most appearances in its history.
Despite the packed stadium filled with eager fans hoping to witness Messi's brilliance, the 36-year-old star had limited impact on the game. He missed a free kick in the first half but displayed his trademark agility and skill, effortlessly maneuvering past opponents. Messi had previously missed a preseason win in Hong Kong due to lingering injuries, and in the following game, he remained on the bench with a groin injury, leading to disgruntled fans demanding refunds.
During Thursday's match, Messi exited the field alongside Inter Miami's Luis Suárez in the 60th minute. However, a young fan managed to sprint onto the field, reaching out to Messi before being intercepted by security. Martino confirmed that Messi felt fine after the match and expressed confidence in his recovery as he prepares for the upcoming regular season.
Inter Miami took the lead in the 64th minute with a header from Shanyder Borgelin, but Newell's Old Boys equalized in the 83rd minute through Franco Díaz. Messi's first MLS preseason with Inter Miami was marred by challenges. The team embarked on a global tour of exhibition games featuring Messi and Suárez, aiming to promote and market the club. However, the tour received negative publicity, and the team struggled on the field, being outscored 12-7 in their first five games before finally securing a win in Hong Kong. Unfortunately, the victory was overshadowed by the absence of Messi and Suárez, leading to disappointed fans.
Borgelin, who scored the go-ahead goal shortly after coming on as a substitute, believed that the demanding preseason had made the team stronger and better prepared for the upcoming season, which carries high expectations. Inter Miami will kick off their regular season on February 21 against Real Salt Lake.
The preseason may have been challenging for Inter Miami, but the team remains optimistic about their prospects with Messi leading the way. As they prepare for the regular season, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the magic that Messi brings to the pitch.
