Messi returns ‘home’ as Argentina arrive Miami for Cape Verde clash

Lionel Messi will return to familiar surroundings in Miami on Friday as Argentina face tournament surprise package Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, with the defending champions aiming to continue their title defence.

Three years after joining Inter Miami, the 39-year-old has once again become the driving force behind Argentina’s World Cup campaign. Messi has scored six goals in the group stage, taking his tournament tally to a record 19 goals and extending his World Cup scoring streak to seven consecutive matches.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has continued to defy expectations since leaving European football for Major League Soccer following Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.

Rather than slowing down, Messi has transformed both club and country. He inspired Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy by winning the Leagues Cup in his debut season before leading the club to its maiden MLS title the following year.

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His arrival also changed the profile of Inter Miami, attracting former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, while helping fuel soccer’s growing popularity across South Florida.

“Messi marked a before and after for what soccer means here. From 2023 onwards, everyone became an Inter fan,” said Juan Pugin, a coach at the Revo Soccer Academy in Doral. “We’ve really noticed it at the academy too. Many more kids have signed up to play the sport.”

The excitement has spread beyond local supporters, with Argentine fans turning Miami into a home away from home ahead of Friday’s knockout clash.

Lily Diaz, a Buenos Aires native who has lived in Florida for four decades, described Messi’s presence as a source of pride.

“It’s a huge thrill to have Messi come play for Argentina. He’s a role model as both an athlete and a human being,” she said after watching the captain play several times for Inter Miami.

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