Inter Miami is gearing up for what promises to be a challenging 2025 season, and Lionel Messi continues to demonstrate why he is the centerpiece of the team. During the team's fourth preseason friendly against Honduran club C.D. Olimpia, Messi exhibited his legendary skills by scoring one goal and providing two assists, underlining his importance to the squad.
The match, which took place at the Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano, saw Messi face some initial adversity. He missed two early chances within the first 16 minutes, failing to convert after receiving passes from teammates Luis Suarez and Tadeo Allende. Yet, the Argentine superstar kept pressing, and his persistence paid off.
Messi opened the scoring in the 26th minute. A perfectly orchestrated play unfolded when Marcelo Weigandt sent a well-timed through ball to Suarez. Instead of attempting to score himself, Suarez unselfishly passed to Messi, who calmly slotted the ball home, netting his second goal of 2025 and giving Inter Miami the lead.
But Messi wasn't done yet. Just before halftime, he showcased his vision and playmaking abilities. After midfielder Federico Redondo stole the ball, he found Messi, who recognized space well and delivered the ball back to Redondo. Redondo then fired it past the Olympian goalkeeper, extending Inter Miami’s lead to 2-0.
Moments later, Messi capped off his stellar first-half performance. With only seconds to go before the break, he received another pass from Suarez and, facing the goalkeeper with no angle to shoot, cleverly played the ball back to left-back Noah Allen, who scored to make it 3-0.
Initially, there were uncertainties surrounding Messi's playing time. Coach Javier Mascherano had previously mentioned managing Messi's minutes, especially with the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Sporting Kansas City. Nonetheless, Messi's impact during the game reinforced his role as the team's linchpin.
The friendly against C.D. Olimpia was part of Inter Miami's Americas Preseason Tour. The team ended the game with a decisive 5-0 victory, showcasing their preparedness for the forthcoming season. The final preseason game against Orlando City SC is set for February 14, just days before the MLS season opener against New York City on February 22.
Following Messi's prominent role during the match, the defender José Julián Martínez from Olimpia made headlines of his own. Immediately after the final whistle, he approached Messi and asked for his jersey, which the superstar graciously granted. This moment was memorable, not just for the player but for all the fans present, who applauded the gesture enthusiastically. It’s evident how Messi’s fame transcends borders and is incredibly impactful even among rival players.
Martínez had previously looked for opportunities to get Messi’s jersey and finally secured it, marking it as one of his career achievements. It was revealed afterward by Olimpia's captain, Jerry Bengtson, who attempted to speak to Messi before the game, presumably to echo Martinez's request.
With the countdown to the MLS season continuing, every match is increasingly significant for Inter Miami as they aim to build momentum entering competitive play. The CONCACAF Champions Cup also looms large, with the first leg against Sporting Kansas City scheduled for February 18 at Children’s Mercy Park.
Inter Miami’s success hinges not just on big performances from Messi but also on integrating new players and maximizing the squad's strength. With the team undefeated through the start of preseason, anticipation builds for what should be another electrifying year for the Herons.
August 2025 could very well be unforgettable for Messi, the team, and their fans, especially if they can capitalize on their promising preseason form. It’s less than two weeks until they face spirited competition, and the excitement is tangible.