Lionel Messi Shines with Goal and Assist in Inter Miami's 2-2 Draw Against Barcelona Guayaquil

Lionel Messi was the standout player as Inter Miami played out a 2-2 draw against Barcelona Guayaquil in a friendly match held in Ecuador. The Argentine forward ended his recent scoring drought by opening the scoring and providing a crucial assist during the game.

The match took place early in the 2026 season during Inter Miami's South American tour, with the fixture held at the Estadio Monumental de Guayaquil in front of 38,000 fans. Inter Miami, the reigning MLS champions, faced Barcelona Guayaquil, a club from Ecuador, as part of their preseason preparations. This friendly followed previous matches in which Messi had not found the net, including a 0-3 loss to Alianza Lima and a 2-1 victory over Atlético Nacional de Medellín.

Messi's goal came in the 31st minute, marking a return to form for the Argentine. Demonstrating his trademark skill, he drove through the middle of the pitch, dribbled past two defenders to his left, and finished with a precise shot across the goal into the net. This goal was a significant moment for Messi, breaking his recent scoring drought and providing a boost to both himself and his team.

Barcelona Guayaquil responded with an equalizer just before halftime, courtesy of Joao Rojas in the 41st minute. However, Messi again proved decisive in stoppage time of the first half by assisting debutant Germán Belterame. The Mexican forward converted the chance at the edge of the box, restoring Inter Miami's lead going into the break.

The match concluded with a late equalizer from Tomás Martínez in the 87th minute, resulting in a 2-2 draw. This game marked the end of Inter Miami's South American tour, after which the team is scheduled to travel to Puerto Rico for their final preseason match against Independiente del Valle, another Ecuadorian club.

Looking ahead, Inter Miami will begin their 2026 MLS title defense on February 22 with an away fixture against Los Angeles FC. Messi's return to scoring form during the preseason could be a positive sign for the club as they prepare to compete in the upcoming campaign.