Messi helps Inter Miami win their first game of 2026.

Messi has officially hit his stride in the pre-season with Inter Miami and is aiming for the 2026 World Cup with impressive form, having just helped his club secure their first victory of the year.

Messi's excited state

According to journalist Jose Armando of Deporte Total USA, Messi rediscovered his familiar rhythm and enthusiasm in Inter Miami's second South American tour in Colombia, where he played a major role in their 2-1 victory over strong opponent Atletico Nacional on February 1st (Vietnam time).

Messi's new look and eager anticipation for the new season with Inter Miami.

Photo: Reuters

Messi played for approximately 75 minutes, creating numerous opportunities for his teammates, including a stunning shot from outside the box that hit the post at the end of the first half. In this situation, veteran striker Suarez was quick to react and score the equalizer, making it 1-1 for Inter Miami, after Juan Rengifo had opened the scoring for the home team Atletico Nacional in the 30th minute.

In the second half, after Messi left the field, making way for expensive new signings like striker German Berterame making his debut, Inter Miami found the winning goal in the 90+1 minute after Rivero awkwardly scored an own goal from an attacking move involving young star Silvetti and new signing Facundo Mura.

Next, Inter Miami will travel to Ecuador to face Barcelona SC on February 7th in their third match of their South American pre-season tour for 2026. Their final match of the tour will be against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico on February 13th.

Messi and his teammates will officially kick off the 2026 MLS season against Los Angeles FC, featuring star player Son Heung-min, at 9:30 AM on February 22nd.

According to TyC Sports journalist Gaston Edul, Messi will play approximately five preseason MLS games with Inter Miami, after which he will join the Argentine national team for the first time in 2026, expected to begin on March 25th.

This training camp is very important as it prepares for the 2026 World Cup, and also for the Finalissima match between Argentina and Spain in Qatar (March 27). However, it remains uncertain whether Messi will play in the friendly match against Qatar on March 31.

Argentina's preparations for the 2026 World Cup have been slightly altered, with matches scheduled for June, including those against Mexico and Honduras, potentially being cancelled. The opponents and schedule will be adjusted, according to journalist Gaston Edul.

Coach Scaloni is expected to announce Argentina's 26-player squad for the 2026 World Cup at the end of May, after he has held private meetings with Messi and key players to finalize the basic list during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/messi-giup-inter-miami-thang-tran-dau-tien-trong-nam-2026-185260201115136582.htm