February 01, (THEWILL) – Lionel Messi made a surprise late substitute appearance for Inter Miami on Thursday, despite earlier being ruled out through injury. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner came on in the 83rd minute with his side already 6-0 down in a friendly against Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
The match saw three former Barcelona stars Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba start for the Major League Soccer franchise. However, they failed to make an impact as Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al Nassr raced into a three-goal lead inside 15 minutes. The highlight was an audacious lobbed goal from over 50 yards by Spanish international Aymeric Laporte.
Brazilian striker Anderson Talisca grabbed a hat-trick for the hosts, completing his treble with Ronaldo’s iconic “Siu” celebration. Further goals from Otavio and Mohammed Maran rounded off a miserable night for Inter Miami in Riyadh. Busquets completed the full 90 minutes but Suarez and Alba were substituted.
Despite initially being ruled out with a muscle injury sustained earlier this week, Messi was brought on for the closing stages by manager Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino. However, he was unable to prevent a 6-0 thrashing by the Saudi Pro League leaders.
Inter Miami continue their pre-season campaign on February 4th against a Hong Kong League XI. Further friendlies in Japan and against Messi’s former club Newell’s Old Boys are planned before the new 2024 MLS season kicks off.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
