Lionel Messi scored a goal, and Inter Miami outlasted the Mexican champions, Club América, in a preseason clash in Las Vegas on Saturday night.

Inter Miami may have only been back in preseason play for about five days or so but Lionel Messi didn't need long to score his first goal of 2025 facing Club America in Las Vegas or to show off a unique celebration.

Messi was heckled nonstop by large groups of Club América fans among the crowd of 46,000 at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday night, and there were reports that some of the derogatory chants were of the vulgar and homophobic variety that have led to sanctions against Mexican clubs and the Mexican federation in recent years.

Lionel Messi has shown top form with Inter Miami in 2025, scoring against Club America. However, a heated exchange with fans sparked criticism from former players and supporters. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano addressed the incident,

"We obviously faced a rival who is the three-time champion of Mexico, a rival who has been playing the same way for years, who has a very clear style and that is why they have ach

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano defended Lionel Messi's celebration against Club América, saying Mexican fans are hostile toward Argentines

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi shocked fans with his recent celebration against Club America, drawing criticism from a former Mexico World Cup player on Instagram. Inter Miami star Lionel Messi started the year with a goal in a friendly against Club America,

Lionel Messi made a bold claim on Inter Miami's chances in the FIFA Club World Club after the Herons took down Club America, especially with the club's controversial inclusion

Lionel Messi celebrated Inter Miami's equalizer by taunting Club America and Mexico fans for their lack of World Cup success.