Lionel Messi’s first appearance of 2026 ended in an unexpected setback as Inter Miami were beaten 3-0 by Alianza Lima in a pre season friendly, a result that contrasted sharply with the anticipation surrounding the Argentine’s return to action.
Fresh from their historic MLS Cup triumph in 2025, Inter Miami arrived in South America to begin preparations for a demanding new campaign, but were caught cold by an experienced Alianza Lima side that punished early lapses and controlled the contest.
Paolo Guerrero proved decisive for the Peruvian hosts, scoring twice in quick succession in the first half to put the match beyond the visitors, before Luis Ramos added a third after the break to complete a comprehensive victory.
The fixture marked the opening step of Inter Miami’s build up to the new season under Javier Mascherano, who is overseeing a period of transition following the retirement of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. With potential continental commitments on the horizon and a packed calendar ahead, the emphasis for the Herons remains fitness and cohesion rather than immediate results.
Played in front of an enthusiastic crowd eager to witness Messi in the flesh, the atmosphere carried the feel of a major occasion. Every touch from the eight time Ballon d’Or winner was greeted with applause, while Alianza Lima fed off the energy to impose themselves early through aggressive pressing and direct attacking play.
Inter Miami struggled to find rhythm in the opening exchanges, and Alianza Lima capitalised ruthlessly. Guerrero opened the scoring by finishing clinically inside the box, before striking again just minutes later as the defence failed to recover its shape. The goals exposed Miami’s rustiness and handed the hosts firm control.
Messi and Luis Suarez attempted to respond with flashes of link up play, but clear chances were limited. Ramos sealed the result in the 72nd minute, timing his run well to convert and underline the gulf in sharpness between the two sides on the night.
The second half saw Mascherano rotate his squad and adjust his shape, but momentum remained with Alianza Lima. Inter Miami enjoyed more possession yet lacked penetration, while the hosts continued to threaten on the counter and forced several routine interventions from the Miami goalkeeper.
Despite the defeat, the final whistle brought a poignant moment as Alianza Lima striker Alan Cantero secured Messi’s iconic number 10 shirt, an exchange that left him visibly emotional and underlined the reverence Messi commands wherever he plays.
Inter Miami now continue their Champions Tour of South America, with upcoming fixtures against Atletico Nacional, Barcelona de Guayaquil and Independiente de Valle offering further opportunities to sharpen their edge. For Messi and his teammates, the result serves as an early reminder that reputations carry little weight once the whistle blows, and that the real work of the new season has only just begun.
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