In a resounding 3-1 victory for Javier Mascherano’s team, the Uruguayan assisted on a goal and Messi was his own ebullient self.

Despite having most of the possession in the first half, Inter Miami didn’t accomplish much in their final 3-1 victory over Sporting San Miguelito of Panama. After a deft run and interchange with Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi nearly scored, but the goalie made a great save.

In contrast, the home team had one genuine opportunity, which they seized. After 24 minutes, a well-executed attack led to a tidy side-footed finish from Adan Hendricks.

Just before halftime, the Herons offered the equalizer. Marcelo Weigandt crossed to a wide-open Benjamin Cremaschi at the far post after Messi initiated it by eluding his man. From a distance of two yards, he couldn’t miss. In the second half, Miami provided greater attacking confidence. After 52 minutes, Tadeo Allende scored the game-winning goal after Luis Suarez had assisted him. To end the game, Fafa Picault added a third.

At this point in the preseason, the Herons are unbeaten. They defeated Club America to start the season, then last weekend they defeated Universitario on penalties.

For Messi, this was a somewhat mediocre game. Although he appreciated flashes, Suarez’s performances ought to provide genuine motivation. Despite his aged legs, the attacker was a remarkably agile and resilient presence up front.

He was unlucky not to score one of his own goals, but his assist on the second goal was a beautiful thing. Although Miami has its detractors for retaining him on the team, they may have made the right decision if he can perform at this level.

Robert Taylor’s situation appears to be a little bleak. When Messi first joined Miami in the summer of 2023, the winger was an essential member of the club, and with the Argentine’s assistance, he became an Andres Iniesta-lite.

Rather, he finds himself down in the hierarchy and lingering on the bench. He had to be content with just ten minutes of action. He probably won’t see much more.