Lionel Messi marked a historic debut at Inter Miami’s brand-new stadium by scoring his first goal for the club just ten minutes into the opening match. The goal, scored in front of the recently named ‘Leo Messi Stand,’ immediately set the tone for what promised to be a memorable inaugural fixture.
Despite the early brilliance of the Argentine captain, Inter Miami were unable to claim victory, with their Major League Soccer clash against Austin FC finishing in a 2–2 draw.
Interestingly, the first-ever goal in the stadium’s history belonged to Austin FC defender Guilherme Vitor, who gave the visitors the lead in the sixth minute. Messi responded just four minutes later, heading the ball with precision to level the score. This goal also marked the 903rd of Messi’s extraordinary career.
Miami dominated possession after equalising but struggled to break down Austin’s organised defence. In the 53rd minute, Austin regained the lead through a swift counterattack finished by Jayden Nelson.
Coach Javier Mascherano made a strategic substitution in the 73rd minute, bringing on veteran striker Luis Suárez. Eight minutes later, Suárez scored from close range after a header by German Barterem off a Messi corner, salvaging a point for the hosts.
The match nearly ended in a dramatic Miami win when Messi’s trademark free-kick struck the post in the 90th minute. Suárez’s follow-up effort was ruled out for offside, leaving the final score at 2–2. The draw extended Inter Miami’s unbeaten run in MLS to five games, while Austin FC remain winless in four.
This fixture was Inter Miami’s first home game since winning last season’s MLS Cup and the first played at their city-based stadium after six years at Fort Lauderdale.
The 26,000-capacity venue was inaugurated by club co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas. Beckham, moved by the moment, reflected on the long journey to establish the stadium, noting promises made when joining MLS 20 years ago and returning to Miami 13 years ago.
Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário, a former Real Madrid teammate of Beckham, also attended to witness the historic occasion.
Mascherano praised the stadium after the game: “It is a world-class venue. The fans’ presence was extraordinary; the stands were completely full.”
Next week, Inter Miami will host New York Red Bulls at their new home.
Match Highlights
| Minute | Team | Scorer | Scoreline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6′ | Austin FC | Guilherme Vitor | 0–1 |
| 10′ | Inter Miami | Lionel Messi | 1–1 |
| 53′ | Austin FC | Jayden Nelson | 1–2 |
| 81′ | Inter Miami | Luis Suárez | 2–2 |
