On the morning of February 15 (Vietnam time), Inter Miami played against Orlando City in a friendly match before the 2025 season. In this match, coach Rafael Mascherano deployed Miami's almost strongest squad with top stars such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Busquets and Alba.
Despite having a better squad, Inter Miami was the team that played at a disadvantage right after the opening whistle. In the 15th minute, Martin Ojeda took advantage of Miami's lack of solidity to open the scoring. However, Inter Miami did not take long to respond. In the 22nd minute, Luis Suarez had an accurate assist to help Tadeo Allende equalize the score 1-1.
In the second half, Orlando City was still the overwhelming team. The scenario in this half was similar to the first half when the home team continued to take the lead in the 53rd minute when Ramiro Enrique's dangerous shot became a goal.
Although Messi and Suarez tried their best, they could not help Inter Miami score. In the 56th minute, Messi created an opportunity for Suarez but the Uruguayan striker could not take advantage. Just 2 minutes later, Messi almost had a chance to score, but he could not keep up with Jordi Alba's pass.
During the match, Messi did not leave much of an impression against Orlando City. In the 67th minute, a collision between Messi and player Orlando increased the atmosphere of the match, leading to controversy between the two teams. Messi also had a header but could not get past goalkeeper Gallese.
In the 75th minute, Messi left the field under the applause of the audience, but he had a rather lackluster match. When the Argentine star left the field, Inter Miami focused on attacking strongly. Fafa Picault had a chance in the 77th minute but failed. However, in the 93rd minute, he corrected his mistake when scoring the equalizer 2-2.
In the end, the match ended in a 2-2 draw. After this match, coach Rafael Mascherano still has a lot to do to improve Inter Miami's playing style as the new season is approaching.
