Lionel Messi’s bond with the name “Barcelona” is steeped in history, memories, and emotion. Fittingly, the Argentine superstar began his 2026 campaign by scoring against a team carrying that iconic name. However, despite Messi’s brilliance on the pitch, Inter Miami could only manage a 2-2 draw in their pre-season friendly.
It is important to clarify that this “Barcelona” is not the famous Spanish club. Rather, Messi faced Barcelona Sporting Club, one of Ecuador’s most storied football institutions. Competing in Ecuador’s top-flight Serie A, Barcelona SC holds the distinction of never having been relegated—a feat it shares with Spain’s FC Barcelona, though not uniquely so in La Liga.
Messi’s goal against Barcelona SC was his first of the calendar year. Prior to this, he had featured in two pre-season friendlies for Inter Miami, remaining goalless in both matches. This particular encounter formed part of the club’s high-profile “Champions Tour”, designed to engage fans and prepare the team for the upcoming MLS season.
The goal itself was quintessential Messi. Receiving the ball near midfield, he embarked on a surging run, gliding past two defenders before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike into the net, giving Inter Miami a 1-0 lead.
This opener brought relief to Inter Miami, who had suffered a 3-0 defeat to Alianza Lima in an earlier friendly and seen Messi go scoreless in a 2-1 victory over Atlético Nacional. Yet, their lead proved temporary. Just before half-time, Barcelona SC equalised through João Rojas, who headed in Johan García’s precise cross, making it 1-1.
Messi then provided the assist for Inter Miami’s second goal. New signing German Berterame found the net, restoring a 2-1 advantage for the visitors at the break. Despite this, Inter Miami were unable to hold on, conceding in the second half and ultimately settling for a 2-2 draw.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami—last season’s MLS champions—will officially kick off their 2026 campaign on 22 February, facing LAFC in their opening league match. Messi’s early-season form and fitness will be closely watched as the team aims to defend their MLS crown.
Match Summary: Inter Miami vs Barcelona SC
| Team | Scorers | Score Progression | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inter Miami | Lionel Messi (1′), German Berterame (45′) | 1-0 → 2-1 | Messi’s first 2026 goal; Berterame scores off Messi assist |
| Barcelona SC | João Rojas (41′), – | 1-1 → 2-2 | Equaliser before half-time; second-half goal denies Miami win |
Messi’s sparkling start to 2026, even in a drawn match, reaffirms why he remains a central figure in any game he touches. Fans will be hoping that this goal is the first of many as Inter Miami chase another historic MLS season.