Messi scores as Inter Miami plays out a 2-2 draw with Austin at the new stadium opener
Miami, April 5
Inter Miami CF played its historic home opener at its state-of-the-art new stadium in the heart of Miami. The match resulted in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Austin FC in MLS regular season action.
Captain Lionel Messi and forward Luis Suarez scored the club's historic first goals at Nu Stadium.
The visitors took the lead in the sixth minute with a goal from Guilherme Biro. Inter Miami equalised shortly after with a goal from captain Messi, who notched his-off first goal at Nu Stadium with a precise header from inside the box.
The goal was Messi's fight this regular season while the assist was the first for Homegrown defender Fray this regular season.
The 1-1 scoreline held through the half, but Austin scored again in the 53' to reclaim the lead.
Inter Miami equalised for the final 2-2 scoreline in the 82nd minute. Second-half-substitute Suarez was the one responsible for rescuing the point, scoring from close range following a corner.
The goal was the first for Suarez this season, while Berterame and Silvetti posted their second assists of the regular season.
The 2-2 scoreline would hold through the final whistle for Inter Miami to claim a point at home in its historic opener at Nu Stadium.
"It's clear that for the last 20 to 25 minutes, we took a lot of risks," head coach Javier Mascherano told reporters post-match. "But we're at home. We're MLS Cup champions, and we have to show it."
With Nu Stadium's first match in the books, Inter Miami are looking to build on the legacy they've already created wthe MLS MLS Cup 2025, 2024 Supporters' Shield and Leagues Cup 2023 titles.
"I think favouriterite part is still to come," said Mas. "Everything to now has been frankly extremely stressful, the last few months. But I think the culmination of lifting an MLS Cup, us together here in December, would be a great shining cap off to an amazing year."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Thrilling game to open the new stadium! Suarez coming off the bench to save the point shows their depth. As a football fan in India watching late at night, it was worth it. The MLS is getting more exciting every year.
Good result but the defence still looks shaky. Conceding two goals at home is a concern if they want to defend their title. Mascherano needs to sort that out. But Messi magic is always a joy to watch, yaar! 🥅
The new stadium looks fantastic from the pictures! A draw in the opener is fine, the important thing is the team showed character to come back twice. Suarez proving he's still got it. Hoping to see more Indian fans supporting MLS now.
Respectful criticism: The article mentions the "historic opener" many times, feels a bit repetitive. Focus more on the gameplay analysis. That said, Messi's header was pure class. The man is a legend across continents.
So happy for Luis Suarez! After a slow start to the season, getting that crucial goal will boost his confidence. The team spirit seems great. As an Indian football fan, seeing such global stars play regularly is a treat. More power to MLS!
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