×

Read what Lionel Messi said to the 17 year old Inter Miami player Morales who made his debut today

Read what Lionel Messi said to the 17 year old Inter Miami player Morales who made his debut today

On January 18, 2025, Inter Miami faced Club América in a preseason friendly at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The match was notable not only for the star-studded lineup but also for the debut of 17-year-old Santiago Morales. Morales, a product of Inter Miami’s youth academy, was introduced in the 88th minute, replacing Fafá Picault.

 

The game was intense, with Club América taking the lead in the 31st minute through Henry Martín. Inter Miami responded swiftly, as Lionel Messi headed in a cross from Luis Suárez in the 34th minute, marking his first goal of the 2025 preseason. The Mexican side regained the lead in the 53rd minute with a goal from Israel Reyes. However, Inter Miami equalized in stoppage time when Tomás Avilés headed in a corner from Julian Gressel, bringing the score to 2-2. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Morales took the decisive fifth penalty, calmly converting to secure a 5-4 victory for Inter Miami.

 

After the match, Lionel Messi, who had been substituted in the 66th minute, approached Morales to congratulate him. Messi, known for his leadership and mentorship, placed a hand on Morales’s shoulder and said, “You showed great composure out there. Taking the decisive penalty at your age is impressive. Keep working hard, stay humble, and your future will be bright.” These words from one of the greatest footballers in history undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the young midfielder.

 

Morales, reflecting on the experience, expressed his gratitude: “Sharing the field with players like Messi and Suárez is a dream come true. Their encouragement means the world to me, and it motivates me to keep improving.” Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, also praised Morales’s performance, stating, “Santi has been working hard in training, and today he showed that he can handle pressure situations. His confidence in taking the final penalty speaks volumes about his character.”

 

 

e club.

Post Comment