The Herons made the decision to leave out former Barcelona stars Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets from their travel roster for the match against the Vancouver Whitecaps. This trio remained at Chase Stadium while Tata Martino’s team secured a 2-1 victory.

On Friday evening, Messi and Suarez led two teams of young players onto the field before the Inter Miami CF Youth International Cup. The Herons’ U12 team, including Thiago Messi, competed against in-state rivals Orlando City SC U12 Academy Team.

After accompanying the players onto the pitch, Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, addressed the 10,000 fans present, expressing gratitude for their attendance and emphasizing the joy of football. He acknowledged the sacrifices parents make for their children’s passion for the sport and wished the young players success and enjoyment in the tournament.

The match concluded with a 1-1 draw, with the tournament continuing throughout the weekend. Following this break, Messi is expected to return to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday against Atlanta United, as he prepares for his upcoming Copa America duties with Argentina.

Messi and Suarez leading the next generation onto the field! What a moment! ⚽️💫 pic.twitter.com/pQQnHkNU36

— Inter Miami CF Academy (@InterMiamiAcad) May 25, 2024

Lionel Messi

This season he played in total 10 times for 854 minutes for Major League Soccer.

Lionel Messi   scored 10 goals for Inter Miami. He procured 10 assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 1st in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami won 2-1 against Vancouver Whitecaps.

Inter Miami performance and stats

Inter Miami is currently 1st in the Major League Soccer with 27 points.

In the last 16 games, it has won 10 times, drawn 4 times, and lost twice. In its last match, Inter Miami won 1-2 against Vancouver Whitecaps.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 35 goals and conceding 20.​