Soccer
Inter Miami and Lionel Messi set for Las Vegas clash against Liga MX giants
Last year the Herons' preseason tour saw them take on teams from El Salvador, USA, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Japan and Argentina.
The record-breaking 2024 Inter Miami season came to a sudden halt with the shock Round One exit to Atlanta United. The Herons lifted the Supporters' Shield but they’ll be expected to improve on their playoff performance in 2025.
Last year Miami embarked on a hectic world tour, facing teams from El Salvador, USA, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Japan and Argentina, with fairly underwhelming results. This time they’re expected to take things a little easier but have reportedly lined up a major Mexican team for their preseason preparations.
As per Deporte Total USA, Inter Miami will take on Club América in Las Vegas next month, with January 18 currently cited as the most likely date. The most successful team in Mexican soccer, Club América are the current Campeón de Campeones in Liga MX.
With more fans than any other Mexican team, Club América represent a major commercial draw for Inter Miami as they look to arrange high-profile fixtures ahead of the 2025 campaign. Both Miami and América have qualified for the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup, however they are on different sides of the bracket so are unable to meet until the final.
Inter Miami schedule for preseason fixtures
The Herons’ final preseason plans are still to be confirmed but do have one fixture nailed down. Last month it was confirmed that Miami will take on Florida rivals Orlando City at Raymond James Stadium on Friday, February 14.
The venue is more usually home to NFL side Tampa Bay Buccaneers and boasts a massive 75,000 capacity. It’s not yet clear if the full stadium will be used for the game but a capacity crowd would break Inter Miami’s attendance record. Currently, the 72,610 fans who watched the regular season game against Sporting Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium is the biggest crowd.
Orlando president of business operations Jarrod Dillon said of the upcoming friendly: “We can’t wait to bring the excitement of the Orlando/Miami rivalry down the road to our neighbors in Tampa, and look forward to having the opportunity to showcase our Lions in front of a great crowd at Raymond James Stadium.”
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