(Watch) Messi’s Inter Miami tour begins with setback

Lionel Messi suffered tough start to 2026 as Inter Miami lost 3-0 to Alianza Lima in preseason match in Lima.

Heavy defeat for Inter Miami in Peru

Argentine star Lionel Messi faced disappointing night in Lima after Inter Miami were beaten 3-0 by Peruvian side Alianza Lima in their first preparation match of 2026.

The friendly was played at the historic Alejandro Villanueva Stadium marking Messi’s first appearance at the venue.

It was also the second time he has played in Peru with Inter Miami but the result was major setback for the MLS club early in their South American tour.

Alianza Lima take control

Messi started the match with cautious physical approach aiming to avoid injuries in year where he is expected to defend the FIFA World Cup title with Argentina.

Alianza Lima took advantage and scored twice through veteran striker Paolo Guerrero before Luis Ramos added third goal to complete dominant win for the home team.

Inter Miami struggled to create clear chances as the Peruvian side pressed strongly and controlled the tempo throughout the match.

Messi plays 63 minutes under Mascherano

Messi featured from the start and played 63 minute under Argentine coach Javier Mascherano.

He formed attacking trio with Luis Suarez & Rodrigo De Paul but the Miami attack lacked sharpness.

Messi’s main moment came from well hit free kick that narrowly missed the target sailing just over the crossbar.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Inter Miami CF