Lionel Messi provided a standout performance in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw against Barcelona SC during a preseason friendly in Quito, Ecuador, on Saturday. The match served as valuable preparation for the upcoming Major League Soccer season and allowed both clubs to assess their squads in a competitive setting.
Messi opened the scoring with a signature solo effort, weaving through multiple defenders before finishing clinically. The goal drew applause from the local crowd and highlighted Messi’s continued sharpness ahead of the regular season. In addition to finding the net, the Argentine forward also registered an assist, setting up new signing Germán Berterame for one of Miami’s two goals.
Barcelona SC, playing in front of a home crowd at high altitude in Quito, responded with two goals of their own in a match that featured moments of high intensity and technical skill from both sides. The Ecuadorian side showed strong cohesion and pace, capitalizing on transitional opportunities to equalize the scoreline.
Inter Miami head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino made several substitutions throughout the game to evaluate player form and fitness. The match marked one of several preseason fixtures scheduled for Inter Miami as the team builds chemistry and rhythm before the start of the MLS campaign.
For Messi, the preseason has been an opportunity to integrate further with his teammates and contribute in a leadership role following a successful debut season in the United States. Berterame’s goal, assisted by Messi, will be seen as a positive sign as Inter Miami continues to integrate new arrivals into their squad.
The game concluded with both teams sharing honors in a well-contested encounter. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the runout, with an emphasis on physical conditioning and tactical refinement. Inter Miami will continue their preseason tour, while Barcelona SC shifts focus to domestic and continental competitions.
The draw provided valuable insights for both coaching staffs and entertained supporters eager to see their teams take shape ahead of competitive play.
