Inter Miami CF, led by Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, is gearing up for their preseason activities as they face off against local club Sporting San Miguelito today, February 2, 2025, in Panama City. The match marks another chapter for the American squad as they prepare for the upcoming Major League Soccer (MLS) season.
The team, which arrived at Tocumen International Airport under tight security, is staying at the Santa María Hotel. Messi’s presence, alongside fellow stars such as Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, has generated excitement among fans and heightened anticipation for today's game at the Romel Fernández Stadium.
This encounter is particularly special for Messi, who last played in Panama over a decade ago, back in 2010. On his previous visit, he left quite the impression by scoring against the local teams, and expectations are high as he makes his return.
Inter Miami is coming off strong performances during their tour, including their recent triumph against Universitario de Deportes, where they secured victory through a penalty shootout after ending regulation time goalless. With MLS set to kick off on February 22, 2025, today's match is another opportunity for the team to build cohesion and refine their strategies.
The friendly against Sporting San Miguelito is not just any preseason affair; it plays a pivotal role as the squad prepares for the demanding MLS season as well as the Club World Cup, slated for June and July this year within the United States. The local team, Sporting San Miguelito, is also performing well, having started their 2025 Apertura tournament with four points, tying with Alianza and Plaza Amador at the top of Group A.
With ambitions set high, Inter Miami isn’t stopping after today's game. They have more matches lined up on their schedule: another friendly against Olimpia set for February 8 in Honduras, followed by their concluding clash against Orlando City on February 14 back in Florida.
These fixtures not only indicate the team's strategic preparations but also highlight their commitment to making significant strides as they venture forward. The anticipation surrounding today’s game showcases the potential excitement this squad can bring, encompassing not just experienced players but also future aspirations within the MLS and beyond.