Messi's Incredible 21-Year Scoring Streak Continues as Inter Miami Crushes Barcelona SC
Lionel Messi has found the net against Barcelona. Not against his former Spanish club, but the 38-year-old Argentinian forward scored in Inter Miami's 2–2 exhibition match versus Ecuador's Barcelona SC on Saturday evening, marking his first goal of 2026.
Though the strike was in a preseason context, it demonstrated all the talent the experienced eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient continues to possess. During the 31st minute, he weaved through the middle of the field before outmaneuvering two defenders and curling a shot beyond the keeper into the goal, displaying technical ability that remains razor-sharp.
This goal means he has now found the net for a professional club in each year dating back to 2005 and has opened his offensive account after guiding the Herons to the 2025 MLS Cup championship while claiming his consecutive MLS MVP honor.
Golazo de Leo 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/8p8wbvNCXc
Regarding Barcelona SC from Guayaquil, Ecuador, they received their moniker from founder Don Eutimio Pérez Arumi, who drew inspiration from his hometown in the Spanish metropolis where Messi established much of his reputation.
Messi also contributed an assist during the contest, providing a pass from the center of the field to newly acquired Designated Player Germán Berterame. The Mexican international powered home a finish to restore the advantage in the third minute of added time, following Barcelona's Joāo Rojas equalizing strike in the 41st minute.
Messi and Germán Berterame's first link-up as @InterMiamiCF teammates. 🤝pic.twitter.com/rF2iLH8J03
Despite Miami's strong showing throughout the encounter, they were unable to secure victory. Following another winter acquisition, David Ayala, receiving a red card in the 87th minute, Barcelona's Tomás Martínez capitalized shortly thereafter.
The stalemate concludes Miami's three-game South American expedition with a 1-1-1 record, after suffering a 3–0 defeat to Peru's Alianza Lima and earning a 2–1 victory over Colombian powerhouse Atlético Nacional.
"Overall, I'm pleased with the performance," Miami head coach Javier Mascherano stated. "At times the final score masks the actual display. Those who study the match beyond just the outcome can see progress from our previous outing. There's some disappointment about conceding late, but we're witnessing what we hoped to see."
Messi's Development and Team Synergy
Messi's Development and Team Synergy
Though Miami hasn't encountered competitive match intensity in 2026 yet, Messi's displays have enhanced with each exhibition game, positioning him well for his third complete MLS season.
Beyond his goal and assist, he was active across the field connecting offensive movements during his 58-minute appearance. He recorded two successful take-ons while generating three scoring opportunities and completing all attempted crosses and long passes.
Simultaneously, his statistical contributions have grown each match, after being held scoreless in the opener, registering an assist in the second fixture, before enhancing his output with both a goal and assist in the South American tour finale.
Saturday's match also featured Messi performing effectively within a formidable Miami starting eleven that could serve as a template for the MLS season kickoff, including new additions like 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair, along with center-back Micael and striker Berterame.
Moving forward, the Herons will prepare for one last preseason matchup against reigning Ecuadorian Serie A titleholders Independiente de Valle on Feb. 13, with that contest scheduled for Puerto Rico to complete preparations for the MLS regular season debut against Son Heung-min's LAFC on Feb. 21.