In a season finale marked by star power and high stakes, Lionel Messi played the entire game for Inter Miami on Saturday night, drawing a massive crowd of 66,101 to Charlotte FC’s Bank of America Stadium. Despite Messi’s presence and noteworthy performance, it was Charlotte FC that secured a 1-0 victory, clinching a spot in the MLS playoffs.
Messi, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, showcased his skills on the artificial turf, with fans adorning “Messi 10” jerseys in a show of support. The match, although of little consequence for Inter Miami, marked Messi’s full-game participation, finishing the season with 11 goals in 14 matches for the team.
While Messi had a goal disallowed due to an offside call and hit the crossbar with another attempt, the spotlight eventually shifted to Charlotte FC’s quest for a playoff berth. Kerwin Vargas’ goal in the 13th minute proved decisive, securing the victory needed for Charlotte to qualify for the postseason.
The victory capped a successful season for Charlotte FC, finishing second in league attendance, with an average of 33,634 fans. The team’s playoff qualification adds to the excitement of a historic night that saw Messi’s prowess on display and Charlotte FC achieving its postseason aspirations.
