Inter Miami continued their preparations for the 2026 season with a dramatic 2-2 preseason draw against Ecuadorian side Barcelona SC, and once again, all eyes were on Lionel Messi. The Argentine legend delivered a moment of pure brilliance, scoring a trademark solo goal and providing an assist in an entertaining friendly played at Estadio Banco Pichincha in Quito.
The match served as another important test for Inter Miami as they fine-tune tactics, build chemistry, and integrate new signings ahead of the upcoming MLS campaign. While the result ended level, the performance—especially from Messi—offered plenty of positives for fans and coaching staff alike.
Messi magic lights up Quito
Messi opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a goal that reminded the football world why he remains one of the greatest players of all time. Picking up the ball deep in midfield, the Inter Miami captain surged forward, glided past defenders with effortless control, and unleashed a precise left-footed shot from the edge of the box. It was his first goal of 2026 and a classic example of his ability to change a game in an instant.
The goal gave Inter Miami early momentum, but Barcelona SC responded through Joao Rojas to level the score. The Ecuadorian side fed off the home crowd’s energy, putting Miami under pressure during spells of the first half.
New signing makes his mark
Just before halftime, Messi was again at the center of the action. Spotting the run of new signing Germán Berterame, he delivered a perfectly weighted cross-field pass. Berterame controlled the ball on the edge of the area and fired a shot that beat the goalkeeper with the help of a slight deflection.
For Inter Miami, it was an encouraging moment. Berterame, who recently arrived in a high-profile transfer from Monterrey, was making his first start in Miami colors. Linking up so smoothly with Messi highlighted the growing understanding within the squad and hinted at an exciting attacking partnership for the season ahead.
Late drama denies Inter Miami victory
Messi was substituted shortly after the hour mark, with Luis Suárez coming on as Miami looked to manage minutes during the preseason. The team appeared on course for a win until late drama shifted the momentum.
In the 87th minute, Miami substitute David Ayala was shown a red card following a foul, leaving Inter Miami down to ten men. Moments later, Barcelona SC capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Tomás Martínez finishing from close range to make it 2-2.
While the late equalizer was disappointing, preseason results often take a back seat to performance and preparation. For Miami, the match offered valuable lessons in game management and squad depth.
Building toward the 2026 MLS season
Under head coach Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami are still shaping their identity ahead of the new season. The draw in Quito means Miami now have one win from three matches on their South American tour, following games against Alianza Lima and Atlético Nacional.
The focus now shifts to the final stages of preseason. Miami will complete their preparations with a match against Independiente del Valle before turning their attention to the MLS opener against LAFC on February 21.
Why Inter Miami fans can be optimistic
Despite the draw, there is plenty for supporters to be excited about. Messi looks sharp and motivated, new signings are settling quickly, and the team is gaining valuable match fitness against strong international opposition. Preseason is about progress, not perfection—and Inter Miami are clearly moving in the right direction.
As the 2026 season approaches, one thing is certain: with Messi leading the way, Inter Miami will once again be one of the most watched and talked-about teams in world football.
