Lionel Messi scored a goal and made his presence known throughout the first half as Inter Miami beat Mexican superpower Club America 3-2 on penalty kicks after the teams played to a 2-2 deadlock in regulation on Saturday night.

When Inter Miami open their preseason tour against Club América in Las Vegas, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi. Two months after Inter Miami crashed out of the MLS Cup playoffs, the Herons are back in action ahead of the 2025 Major League Soccer season.

Inter Miami may have only been back in preseason play for about five days or so but Lionel Messi didn't need long to score his first goal of 2025 facing Club America in Las Vegas or to show off a unique celebration.

Messi faced plenty of backlash from those in Mexico after mocking their lack of World Cup success compared to Argentina's decorated history. Notably, former "El Tri" international Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista called out the Argentinian for a "lack of professionalism and education."

"We obviously faced a rival who is the three-time champion of Mexico, a rival who has been playing the same way for years, who has a very clear style and that is why they have ach

Meanwhile, forward Fafa Picault, one of the new players in Inter Miami camp, is feeling at home. The 33-year-old Haitian American spent his teen years in Cutler Bay, where his family still lives. He attended Miami Killian High School and played for local youth clubs and the Fort Lauderdale Strikers before heading overseas.

Lionel Messi has shown top form with Inter Miami in 2025, scoring against Club America. However, a heated exchange with fans sparked criticism from former players and supporters. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano addressed the incident,