Club America vs Inter Miami

January 18, 2025

Messi takes on Club America

Under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium, many fans witnesses a thriller, friendly match up between MLS's Inter Miami and Liga MX's Club America. Thanks to a great team effort in the final third, Club America's Henry Martin was able to tap in the first goal of the game just after the 31st minute. Minutes later, as if it were 2015 at the Camp Nou in Barcelona, Spain; Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi strung up several passes, weaving through the defense which led to a Messi header that found its way to the back of the net. Just like that 1-1, game on. Nothing could separate the two sides as the halftime whistle blew. After only 7 minutes into the second half, Club America's Israel Reyes would come away with the finish after a corner taken quickly and bobbles from Inter Miami's goalkeeper and defense would leave the ball begging to be scored, Reyes would not forgive the costly mistake. Club America fans erupted with joy and the singing and chanting only grew louder. Inter Miami, determined to equalize, would end up sending the friendly matchup to a penalty shootout with a stoppage time goal by Tomas Aviles. Aviles came away with a crucial header from an incredible in-swinger corner kick assist by Julian Gressel. Inter Miami's goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo was the main star in the penalty shootout as he came up huge saving a couple penalties and sealing the victory for Inter Miami. Messi and co. lifted the friendly matchup trophy to honor the first match up between Club America and Lionel Messi.

-Jose Perez