Match that took place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 3rd, fans were treated to a nostalgic performance reminiscent of FC Barcelona’s heyday, thanks to Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. The duo, reuniting on the field for Inter Miami, demonstrated their renowned scoring prowess, leading their team to a historic 5-0 triumph over Orlando City. This victory not only marked the largest winning margin in Inter Miami’s history but also signaled what the club and its supporters hope will be the beginning of many such dominant displays.
Messi, in particular, shone brightly, scoring two rapid-succession goals early in the second half, recording his first multi-goal game in Major League Soccer (MLS). This performance, alongside Suárez’s contributions, underscores the high-caliber talent Inter Miami has attracted and their potential impact on the league. Fans and pundits alike will undoubtedly be watching eagerly to see if this remarkable victory heralds a new era of success for Inter Miami, fueled by the brilliance of Messi and Suárez.
Luis Suárez, the 37-year-old former Barcelona star, has quickly made his mark at Inter Miami, joining his old teammate Lionel Messi to make an immediate impact in the MLS. In just his third match for the club, Suárez not only scored twice but also provided two assists, showcasing the potent chemistry he shares with Messi from their Barcelona days. This connection has rekindled in Miami, with Suárez expressing confidence in their continued success on the field together.
The duo is part of a notable contingent of former Barcelona players, including Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who have joined Inter Miami for their first full MLS season, all uniting with Messi who made the move last summer. Their commitment to the team’s success was evident in their recent performance, contributing significantly to Inter Miami’s historic 5-0 victory over Orlando City. Julian Gressel, another key player for Inter Miami, highlighted the professionalism and drive of the former Barcelona players, aiming to contribute to the team’s victories rather than resting on their laurels.
Suárez’s performance was particularly stellar, scoring his first MLS goals in a rapid seven-minute sequence, showcasing the goal-scoring prowess that has defined his 19-season career with 381 club goals. Messi, too, praised Suárez’s abilities, highlighting his crucial role in the match. The game against Orlando City also saw Robert Taylor scoring, with Gressel providing assists, contributing to Inter Miami’s unbeaten start to the season – a first in the club’s history.
The match began with Suárez scoring early, thanks to a strategic play initiated by Messi and executed by Gressel. This early lead set the tone for the game, with Suárez and Messi continuing to dismantle Orlando City’s defense. Suárez also played a key role in setting up Taylor’s goal, demonstrating his versatility as both a scorer and a provider.
Despite the on-field tensions, including a halftime altercation involving Suárez and Orlando players, Inter Miami’s focus remained unwavering, with Messi and Suárez leading by example. The match was part of a busy schedule for Inter Miami, which includes a series of seven matches over a month, alongside Messi’s commitments to the Argentina national team for upcoming exhibitions.
Inter Miami’s coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, praised the team’s performance and emphasized the importance of maintaining a defensive shutout. As the team looks forward to a packed schedule, including CONCACAF Nations Cup matches and preparations for the Copa America, Messi’s leadership and the collective strength of the team’s Barcelona contingent signal a promising path of growth and ambition for Inter Miami.