INTER MIAMI AND BARCELONA SC PLAYED OUT TO A DRAMATIC 2-2 DRAW IN QUITO, ECUADOR, MARKING A TURNOVER WEEK FOR INTER MIAMI THAT LEFT MANY INSIDE THE STADIUM ON EDGE.
The encounter began with an enthralling performance from Lionel Messi, who showcased his legendary skills and provided a masterclass in both goalscoring ability and ball distribution. His 31st-minute goal was a testament to the Argentine’s mastery of the game, as he executed a seamless run past multiple defenders before slapping home a powerful left-footed shot that found the bottom corner.
The match took an unexpected turn when Joao Rojas came off the bench to level the score in first half stoppage time. Barcelona SC’s resurgence was short-lived though, as Inter Miami swiftly regained their lead. New signing German Berterame rose to the occasion with a deflected finish from just inside the penalty box, making his debut at the club on what amounted to an almost $15 million transfer from Monterrey.
Despite these efforts, Messi’s night in Quito was cut short by the referee’s decision to send off substitute David Ayala for a yellow card offense just moments before the final whistle. The match took a dramatic turn as Tomas Martinez capitalized on the confusion with a late equalizer, sending the home crowd into frenzied chants of “¡Toma! ¡Toma!”
The evening’s result leaves INTER MIAMI at 1 win from three preseason games in South America, setting their sights firmly on the inaugural MLS season. The club will face Independiente del Valle next in Puerto Rico before heading to Los Angeles to take on LAFC on February 21st.
For Barcelona SC, the night was a reminder of Messi’s enduring impact on the game, even from afar. His presence energized opponents and provided Inter Miami with an additional challenge as they prepare for another season under Javier Mascherano’s guidance.