As Messi fans anticipate the 2024 season, Inter Miami CF has unveiled an enterprising preseason schedule featuring compelling matchups and a one-of-a-kind international tour.
Here’s a concise breakdown of the five games so far in Inter Miami’s calendar, as confirmed by the club:
1. El Salvador National Team Clash
- Date: January 19, 2024
- Venue: Estadio Cuscatlán, San Salvador
- What’s At Stake: The preseason starts with a challenging match against the El Salvador national team, offering a crucial test for Inter Miami’s squad against top Central American talent, a good preparation for what’s to come during the Concacaf Champions Cup.
2. Riyadh Season Cup in Saudi Arabia
- Dates: January 29 and February 1, 2024
- Venue: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh
- What’s At Stake: Inter Miami CF heads to Saudi Arabia for the Riyadh Season Cup, facing off against Al-Hilal SFC and Al Nassr FC in a round-robin tournament. The tournament highlight is the clash between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, adding star power to an already exhilarating preseason. Chief Business Officer Xavier Asensi emphasized the opportunity to connect with passionate fans in Saudi Arabia while narrowing the relationship between the two leagues.
3. Messi’s Hong Kong Debut
- Date: February 4, 2024
- Venue: Hong Kong Stadium
- What’s At Stake: Inter Miami CF embarks on its first-ever international game in Hong Kong against the Hong Kong Team in another preseason match against a National Team. Club Managing Owner Jorge Mas emphasized the global vision of Inter Miami, aiming to inspire new fans in Asia and share the passion for fútbol.
4. Tokyo Stopover: Inter Miami Faces Vissel Kobe
- Date: February 7, 2024
- Venue: Japan National Stadium, Tokyo
- What’s At Stake: Adding another international destination to their tour, Inter Miami CF will visit Tokyo to take on J1 League champions Vissel Kobe. Chief Business Officer Xavier Asensi highlighted the vibrant fútbol community in Tokyo and the excitement of bringing joy to the global fanbase.
This condensed preseason tour underscores Inter Miami CF’s commitment to preparing Messi for a tough season while providing fans a unique opportunity to witness their team compete on a global stage before making its way to Concacaf’s Continental Cup in March.
5. Concacaf Champions Cup Journey
- Round of 16 Date: March 2024
- What’s At Stake: After clinching the 2023 Leagues Cup title, Inter Miami CF is set for its first-ever participation in the Concacaf Champions Cup. The draw has positioned them against the Nashville SC and Moca FC matchup winner in the Round of 16. Aspirations are clear: conquering more silverware and securing a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Stay tuned for further details on the broadcasts and additional preseason matches for Inter Miami CF and other Major League Soccer teams.
Cover and Images: Courtesy – Inter Miami
