Lionel Messi put on a dazzling display, scoring a goal and providing two assists in Inter Miami’s commanding 5-0 preseason victory over Honduran club Olimpia Deportivo in San Pedro Sula on Saturday night. Messi’s 27th-minute goal marked his second of the preseason, while his two assists came in a breathtaking three-minute span just before halftime. The reigning MLS MVP showcased his world-class talent, offering a glimpse of what Inter Miami fans can expect in the upcoming MLS season and Concacaf Champions Cup.
The match proceeded despite a significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck in the Caribbean Sea less than two hours before kickoff. The earthquake, located north of Honduras and southwest of the Cayman Islands, was confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey.
Following the game, Inter Miami will return to South Florida. There’s speculation that Messi might attend the Super Bowl in New Orleans on Sunday.
Messi’s assists were instrumental in building Inter Miami’s 3-0 lead going into halftime. He set up Federico Redondo in the 44th minute and Noah Allen in stoppage time (45’+2). Luis Suarez, who assisted on Messi’s goal, scored his first of the preseason in the 54th minute, capitalizing on a pass from U.S. men’s national team player Benjamin Cremaschi.
alt text: Lionel Messi playing for Inter Miami in a pre-season match against Club America
Ryan Sailor further extended Inter Miami’s lead with a goal in the 79th minute, assisted by Leo Afonso. Messi was substituted in the 62nd minute, allowing him to rest ahead of Inter Miami’s busy February schedule.
The team has four games remaining in February, each separated by four days or less. Inter Miami’s preseason concludes next Friday against MLS rivals Orlando City at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The club then begins its Concacaf Champions Cup campaign with a first-round away match against Sporting Kansas City on February 18th, followed by the second leg at home on February 25th. Inter Miami’s MLS season opener is scheduled for February 22nd at home against New York City FC.
Under the guidance of new coach and former Messi teammate Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami has enjoyed a perfect preseason, winning all four of its matches. Messi’s impact has been undeniable. He scored a header and played 66 minutes in the preseason opener against Mexican champions Club America in Las Vegas on January 18th.
He played 72 minutes against Universitario in Peru on January 29th, with Inter Miami winning both games on penalty kicks. Messi also orchestrated two goals in 76 minutes during a 3-1 victory against San Miguelito in Panama City last Sunday. Inter Miami’s impressive preseason form, fueled by Messi’s brilliance, sets the stage for a highly anticipated MLS season. Coach Mascherano has emphasized the importance of managing Messi’s playing time given the demanding schedule ahead. “He has been playing more minutes each game, and has finished the three games well,” Mascherano commented. However, he acknowledged the need to “pay attention” to Messi’s workload to avoid injuries. “We know he feels good on the field, it is where he wants to be,” Mascherano added. “So, we will do everything we can to let him play without taking any risks.”