Lionel Messi delights Inter Miami fans by showcasing the Ballon d’Or, Argentine icon receives thunderous applause

The Argentine spoke to the audience before Inter Miami's Noche d'Or friendly against NYCFC on Friday night, expressing gratitude for their support.

Lionel Messi Showcases And Presents His 8th Ballon D'or At Inter Miami
Image via Getty Images

The champion of the World Cup made his way onto the red carpet at DRV PNK Stadium, strolling to the center of the field. There, he presented the prestigious trophy to the entire audience in the stadium, delivering a speech and applauding the dedicated Herons supporters.

Ever since Messi’s arrival, he has transformed the trajectory of the Inter Miami organization, achieving victory in the inaugural Leagues Cup and elevating them from the depths of MLS to the brink of playoff contention. Had the Argentine managed to steer clear of injury in September, it’s almost certain that they would have secured a spot in the postseason.

Following Inter Miami’s 2-1 defeat to New York City FC on Friday evening, Messi is now preparing to join international duty with Argentina for FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittini

Forwarder, Midfielder

ArgentinaArgentina

Age: 37

170 cm

72 kg

Season 2024
Played 12 7 Missed
Minutes 1034 86.2 Avg
Goals 12 1.0 Avg
Assist 10 0.8 Avg
Attempt 55 4.6 Avg
Passes 581 48.475.5% AvgSucc
Yellow 0 0.0 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

This season he played in total 6 times for 372 minutes for Major League Soccer.

Lionel Messi scored 1 goal for Inter Miami. He procured two assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 14th in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Charlotte.

Inter Miami performance and stats

Inter Miami

Manager: Gerardo Martino
Rank 1st
Win 8
Draw 3
Loss 2
Goals 35-20
Diff 15

Inter Miami is currently 14th in the Major League Soccer with 34 points.

In the last 34 games, it has won 9 times, drawn 7 times, and lost 18 times. In its last match, Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Charlotte.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 41 goals and conceding 54.​