Messi was heckled nonstop by large groups of Club América fans among the crowd of 46,000 at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday night, and there were reports that some of the derogatory chants were of the vulgar and homophobic variety that have led to sanctions against Mexican clubs and the Mexican federation in recent years.

Inter Miami may have only been back in preseason play for about five days or so but Lionel Messi didn't need long to score his first goal of 2025 facing Club America in Las Vegas or to show off a unique celebration.

Messi faced plenty of backlash from those in Mexico after mocking their lack of World Cup success compared to Argentina's decorated history. Notably, former "El Tri" international Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista called out the Argentinian for a "lack of professionalism and education."

Lionel Messi is sporting a new haircut this preseason, but otherwise, looked very much like the dangerous reigning MLS MVP as he scored the first Inter Miami goal of 2025 and played 66 minutes in a win against Mexican champion Club America in Las Vegas late Saturday night.

Lionel Messi scored a goal, and Inter Miami outlasted the Mexican champions, Club América, in a preseason clash in Las Vegas on Saturday night.

Lionel Messi celebrated Inter Miami's equalizer by taunting Club America and Mexico fans for their lack of World Cup success.

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi shocked fans with his recent celebration against Club America, drawing criticism from a former Mexico World Cup player on Instagram. Inter Miami star Lionel Messi started the year with a goal in a friendly against Club America,