Messi and Inter Miami Seek Heat in MLS Season Debut
Prelude to the Season: Frigid Clash and Return to Warmth
Lionel Messi’s inaugural Major League Soccer season commenced with a frigid encounter for Inter Miami earlier this week. Now, the team and their talisman are poised to ignite the league with their home opener.
Inter Miami’s 1-0 victory against Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions League showcased Messi’s impact, with the Argentine scoring the lone goal. However, the match was played in bone-chilling temperatures, a stark contrast to the tropical climate of their upcoming fixture.
Inter Miami vs. New York City FC: A Clash of Coaching Debuts
The season opener against New York City FC marks the league debut not only for Messi but also for coaches Javier Mascherano and Pascal Jansen. Mascherano, Messi’s former Barcelona and Argentina teammate, leads Inter Miami, while Jansen, a Dutchman renowned for his work in Hungary, helms NYCFC.
A Rivalry Reignited: Inter Miami’s Road to Redemption
Despite claiming the 2024 MLS Supporters Shield, Inter Miami suffered an early playoff exit last season. They aim to rectify that shortcoming and commence their 2025 campaign with a resounding statement against NYCFC, a team that reached the Eastern Conference finals last year.
Messi’s Presence: A Transformative Catalyst
Messi’s arrival has been a catalyst for Inter Miami, transforming the team into a title contender. His expertise and global appeal have elevated the club’s profile and ignited excitement among fans and analysts alike.
Availability Concerns: Balancing Concacaf and MLS
However, Inter Miami may not be at full strength for their season debut. The condensed schedule, coupled with the upcoming second leg of their Concacaf Champions League tie, has raised concerns about player fatigue. Mascherano acknowledged the need to rotate his squad to ensure optimal performance.
Broadcast Details: Witness History on MLS Season Pass
The Inter Miami-NYCFC match will be broadcast live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. The kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (8:30 p.m. in Argentina).
MLS and Apple: A Strategic Alliance for Growth
MLS and Apple have joined forces to enhance the accessibility of soccer in the United States. MLS Season Pass is available through various platforms, including DirecTV, Xfinity, T-Mobile, and the Google Play Store. Additionally, Amazon Prime Video subscribers can access MLS games through Apple TV+.
Mascherano’s Leadership: A Familiar Face in a New Role
Javier Mascherano, a seasoned veteran of Barcelona and Argentina, assumes the mantle of leadership for Inter Miami. Despite the inherent pressure to succeed, Mascherano remains unfazed and draws inspiration from his time with Messi and other elite players.
MLS’s Pivotal Moment: The Road to 2026
Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber believes the next two years will be critical for the sport in the United States. With the 30th MLS season, the FIFA Club World Cup in the summer, and the FIFA World Cup in 2026, soccer is poised for unprecedented growth and recognition.
