Lionel Messi etched another chapter in his storied career by netting Inter Miami’s inaugural goal at the team’s gleaming new Nu Stadium. The strike arrived in the 10th minute during Saturday’s clash with Austin FC, erasing an early deficit and electrifying the home supporters.
Match Highlights
Austin FC struck first through Guilherme Biro’s header in the sixth minute, silencing the crowd briefly. Messi responded swiftly, soaring to connect with Ian Fray’s precise cross for a clinical header that leveled the score at 1-1. This marked Messi’s fifth goal in just his sixth MLS outing this season, underscoring his explosive start to the 2026 campaign.
The contest concluded in a thrilling 2-2 draw, with Austin’s Jayden Nelson regaining the lead before Luis Suarez equalized nine minutes from time. This match represented Inter Miami’s debut in their namesake city, ending over six years based in Fort Lauderdale.
Stadium Opening Ceremony
Excitement peaked before kickoff as co-owner David Beckham, flanked by Jorge and Jose Mas, rallied fans with a stirring address. Beckham hailed Messi as “the best player in the history of the game” and thanked him for transforming Inter Miami.
The east side features a permanent “Leo Messi Stand” in tribute to the Argentine superstar. “We believed in Miami,” Beckham declared. “And Miami believed in us.” Doors swung open Friday evening for the 26,700-capacity venue.
Stadium and Campus Details
Nu Stadium cost approximately $350 million, part of the $1 billion Miami Freedom Park development. The complex includes a 5,000-space parking garage, 750-room hotel, retail village, 58 acres of public parks, and community soccer fields.
The club fully funded construction privately, though Florida Governor Ron DeSantis approved $8 million in public funds for surrounding road improvements.
Family Presence and Celebrations
Beckham shared the milestone with wife Victoria and sons Cruz and Romeo. Cruz, 21, toured the state-of-the-art facility and posted on Instagram from Messi’s pitchside seat: “Dad I really couldn’t be more proud of you, you have inspired me every day to be a better human and have consistently proved that as long as you work as hard as you can you can achieve your dreams.” He added: “And today you have made history once again, Vamos Miami, see ya tonight.”
Beckham broke ground in 2023 and recently shared training session footage on Instagram, dubbing it “Our new home” alongside images of the pink-and-white pitch.
