Whether Messi will play or not has become the focus of attention ahead of Inter Miami's match against Vissel Kobe on February 7 at the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo. The team, chaired and co-owned by former football legend David Beckham, has chosen to wait about 30 minutes before kick-off to announce its starting eleven.
Messi (left) entered the field in the second half
Accordingly, Messi sat on the bench, but famous players Suarez, Busquets and Jordi Alba all started. However, the absence of Messi made Inter Miami play hard. Not to mention, Busquets had to leave the field early in the 25th minute due to injury.
In the first half, Inter Miami did not create any significant scoring opportunities. They were also pressed by Vissel Kobe for most of the match, only thanks to the excellent performance of goalkeeper Drake Callender that saved many goals.
In the second half, coach Tata Martino sent Messi onto the field in the 60th minute and helped Inter Miami's play improve. In the 75th minute, Messi had a good chance to open the score for Inter Miami, but the Argentine star's two consecutive shots were blocked by the goalkeeper and defender of Vissel Kobe Club right on the goal line.
Unable to score, Inter Miami and Vissel Kobe entered a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Although Messi was still on the field, he did not participate in the shootout, only Jordi Alba participated and successfully took the penalty. However, the remaining 3 players including Gregore, Noah Allen and Robert Taylor all failed to take the penalty, causing Inter Miami to lose to Vissel Kobe 3-4.
Just returned from injury, Messi (right) still makes Vissel Kobe defenders struggle
After the match against Vissel Kobe, Messi and Inter Miami ended their Asian tour with 2 losses, 1 draw (lost on penalties) and 1 win, returning to the US to continue their friendly match against Newell's Old Boys (Argentina) on February 15. Messi and his teammates will play the opening match of the 2024 MLS season against Real Salt Lake at home on February 22.
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