Inter Miami CF Wraps Up Preseason with 1-1 Draw Against Newell’s Old Boys, Sets Sights on Year Two of the Messi Era

In a highly anticipated matchup resonating with the echoes of home, Inter Miami CF bid farewell to their preseason with a 1-1 draw against Argentine giants Newell’s Old Boys. However, what made this fixture particularly interesting was the reunion of two Rosario natives on opposing sides: Inter Miami’s coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino and the legendary Lionel Messi, facing off against the club where their soccer journeys began.

For Messi, the match held sentimental value, marking his first encounter against the club he once adorned during his boyhood years before catapulting to global stardom with Barcelona. Likewise, Martino’s ties to Newell’s ran deep, having not only played but also coached the club, etching his name in its annals with record-breaking performances and managerial successes.

The stage was set at DRV PNK Stadium, filled with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited Messi’s performance against his former team. Despite the buzz surrounding his presence, Messi’s impact on the game remained subdued, marked by a missed free kick in the first half. Nevertheless, his mere presence on the field, effortlessly maneuvering past opponents, highlighted the breathtaking awe that takes place when he’s on the pitch.

This game held added significance for Messi, given his absence from Inter Miami’s previous preseason fixture due to nagging injuries, leaving fans disheartened and demanding refunds. However, Thursday night witnessed a different narrative as Messi, alongside Inter Miami’s Luis Suárez, took to the field, signaling progress in his recovery.

Martino provided reassurance regarding Messi’s fitness post-match, instilling confidence as the team gears up for the regular season. Despite the challenges posed by injuries and a lackluster preseason performance, there’s optimism within Inter Miami’s camp regarding Messi’s integration into the squad and his potential impact in year two of the Messi era.

Inter Miami’s preseason journey has been far from smooth sailing, characterized by a global tour fraught with mixed results and controversies. The team’s initial struggles on the field, coupled with the absence of Messi and Suárez in key fixtures, sparked frustration among fans and tarnished the promotional efforts surrounding the tour.

However, amidst the drama and mishaps, there are glimpses of resilience and determination within the squad, epitomized by Shanyder Borgelin’s decisive goal against Newell’s. Borgelin’s late header, mere minutes after his introduction into the game, showcased the team’s fortitude and readiness to overcome adversity. The 1-1 draw against Newell’s Old Boys serves as a testament to the trials endured and the resilience exhibited by Inter Miami CF, laying the foundation for a season brimming with promise and potential.

Reflecting on the challenges encountered during preseason, Borgelin emphasized the transformative effect it has had on the team, instilling a sense of unity and purpose as they brace themselves for the upcoming season. With lofty expectations riding on their shoulders, Inter Miami stands tall and ready to make a statement in the MLS, anchored by the presence of one of the game’s greatest talents in Messi.

With newfound resilience and the promise of Messi’s brilliance illuminating their path, Inter Miami is primed to embark on a season filled with hope, determination, and the support of their fans. As the curtain rises on a new chapter, Inter Miami stands ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead as they focus on their MLS regular season home opener against Real Salt Lake on Wednesday, February 21st at 8:00 P.M. EST at DRV PNK Stadium.