Lionel Messi Dazzles Chicago Crowd with Near-Miss in Record-Setting MLS Clash

Lionel Messi drew a record 62,358 fans in his Chicago debut as Inter Miami played out a 0-0 draw against Chicago Fire. Despite not scoring, Messi created four big chances and nearly netted a wondergoal.
Lionel Messi drew a record 62,358 fans in his Chicago debut as Inter Miami played out a 0-0 draw against Chicago Fire. Despite not scoring, Messi created four big chances and nearly netted a wondergoal. Inter Miami remains unbeaten this season and next face Columbus Crew, the league only other undefeated team.
After being the center of attention once again, Lionel Messi dazzled fans during Inter Miami’s record-breaking clash against the Chicago Fire, despite the game ending in a 0-0 draw. Making his long-awaited debut in Chicago, Messi nearly scored a sensational goal that would have ranked among his finest, missing by inches in one of four key chances he created. A staggering 62,358 fans packed the stadium, breaking Chicago Fire’s attendance record, previously set at 62,124 in 2023.
Messi had missed Inter Miami’s last two visits to the city due to injury, heightening the anticipation. Inter Miami remains one of just two unbeaten teams in the MLS 2025 season, alongside the Columbus Crew, whom they will face on April 19. The game serves as a high-stakes prelude to their Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against Vancouver Whitecaps on April 24.
Off the field, Messi also had a special encounter with American music legend Lionel Richie at Chase Stadium. Richie, who inspired Messi’s name, expressed joy at finally meeting the Argentine icon, saying, “Mom named him after me... And here we are.” The brief yet memorable meeting followed Inter Miami’s knockout win over LAFC in the Champions Cup, adding another highlight to Messi’s influential run in MLS.







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