Messi scores against Barcelona as Inter Miami continue pre-season preparations with 2-2 draw

Lionel Messi is gearing up for a new season with Inter Miami, picking up where he left off last season with a goal in the Herons' pre-season friendly against Barcelona SC.

The Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the first half for Inter Miami in the eventual 2-2 draw before being replaced by good friend, Luis Suarez, before the hour mark.

Inter Miami continued their preparations for the 2026 MLS season with a 2-2 away draw against Ecuadorian side Barcelona SC in a match that showed flashes of quality but also areas needing improvement. The opening 30 minutes were largely quiet, with few clear chances, before Lionel Messi once again made the difference.

The Argentine star opened the scoring in the 31st minute after being picked out by Ian Fray, weaving through defenders before finishing confidently.

However, Inter Miami’s lead did not last long. Just ten minutes later, João Rojas equalised for the hosts, heading home from close range after goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair misjudged a corner delivery from Johan García.

Messi remained central to Miami’s attacking threat and turned provider just before halftime, as his deflected shot fell kindly for Germán Berterame to score his first goal for the club in stoppage time.

The second half was relatively uneventful until late drama shifted the momentum again. Inter Miami midfielder David Ayala was shown a straight red card, leaving his side a man down. Barcelona SC quickly capitalised, with Tomás Martínez scoring shortly after to make it 2-2.

Despite Messi’s influence, the draw was ultimately a fair result, as the Ecuadorian side matched Inter Miami’s intensity and resilience throughout the contest.