Inter Miami continues its international preseason tour, securing a victory over Universitario de Lima in an exciting penalty shootout. With Lionel Messi as the main attraction, the American team received a warm welcome in Peru, where the world champion was showered with affection by fans in a packed stadium.

Unlike the tense encounter against América in Las Vegas, where Messi had a brief altercation with some Mexican supporters, the Argentine star was embraced by the Peruvian crowd. From the moment he arrived at the Estadio Monumental, hundreds of fans gathered to greet and cheer for him. On the field, Messi played until the 27th minute before being substituted by coach Javier Mascherano, receiving a standing ovation as he exited.

A Relaxed and Engaging Messi

With the match ending in a goalless draw, penalties determined the winner. While his teammates prepared for the shootout, cameras captured Messi laughing on the bench alongside Luis Suárez, showing his relaxed demeanor. Inter Miami ultimately triumphed 5-4, with Julian Gressel, Santiago Morales, David Ruiz, Benjamín Cremaschi, and Yannick Bright converting their spot-kicks.

Beyond the game, Messi once again displayed his connection with fans. Before kickoff, he was seen greeting children in the tunnel, even holding hands with a young admirer. Fans also lined the streets as Inter Miami’s team bus approached the stadium, prompting Messi to wave back from his seat.

Meeting with La T y la M

Messi's presence in Lima not only thrilled football fans but also resonated in the music world. Members of the cumbia band La T y la M, famous for their hit Pa’ la Selección, which became an anthem for Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, met Messi at his hotel. Later, they expressed their gratitude to Peruvian fans and Universitario supporters for the warm reception.

Inter Miami’s Upcoming Matches

Following their successful stop in Peru, Inter Miami will continue its preseason tour with the following fixtures:

• Sunday, February 2 – vs. Sporting San Miguelito (Rommel Fernández Stadium, Panama)
• Saturday, February 8 – vs. Club Deportivo Olimpia (Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano, Honduras)
• Friday, February 14 – vs. Orlando City SC (Raymond James Stadium, Florida, USA)

With an intense schedule and growing anticipation at each destination, Messi and Inter Miami continue to captivate fans worldwide, making their mark on and off the pitch.