Lionel Messi scores stunning individual goal in Inter Miami preseason tie.
Lionel Messi netted a signature solo goal and provided an assist for new recruit Germán Berterame as Inter Miami played to a 2-2 draw with Barcelona SC in a preseason friendly in Quito, Ecuador, on Saturday.
The Argentine forward initiated the scoring for the MLS Cup champions in the 31st minute, advancing from deep into the opposition’s penalty area, maneuvering past two defenders, and firing a left-footed shot into the goal.
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This goal marked Messi’s first of 2026.
The Ecuadorian team briefly equalized with a goal from Joao Rojas before Messi assisted in regaining Miami’s lead during first-half stoppage time.
The 38-year-old executed a precise cross-field pass to locate Berterame at the edge of the area, and the Mexican forward scored with the help of a deflection off the goalkeeper.
This was an excellent way to celebrate Berterame’s first start in Miami colors following his $15 million transfer from Liga MX’s Monterrey at the end of last month.
Messi was substituted for Luis Suárez shortly after the hour mark, but Miami seemed on track for a win until late developments unfolded at Estadio Banco Pichincha.
Miami substitute David Ayala received a red card for a foul in the 87th minute, and just moments later, the home team equalized with a close-range goal from Tomás Martínez.
Miami has secured only one victory from its three matches in South America, having started with a loss to Peru’s Alianza Lima before winning against Colombia’s Atlético Nacional last week.
Javier Mascherano’s squad will finalize its preparations for the upcoming season against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico on Friday.
Miami will commence the 2026 MLS season at LAFC on Feb. 21.
