The reason why Lionel Messi would approach River Plate

Inter Miami's U-13 team, including Thiago Messi, the eldest son of Lionel Messi, continued their Buenos Aires tour with a visit to River Plate’s Monumental stadium. Just a day earlier, the young squad attended Boca Juniors’ 1-0 victory over Gimnasia de La Plata at La Bombonera as part of their exposure to Argentina's football culture.

The group, led by Thiago and accompanied by Matías Messi, posed for photos at the Monumental wearing River Plate jerseys. These snapshots included moments on the pitch, often used by Argentina’s national team, and a meeting with Jorge Brito’s son, the president of River. The team also received River Plate shirts as souvenirs.

A Unique Journey Across Rival Territories

The visit highlighted the contrasting football worlds of Boca Juniors and River Plate, two of Argentina’s most iconic clubs. On Sunday night, the young players, including Benjamín Suárez, son of striker Luis Suárez, watched Boca’s home victory. By Monday, the team switched allegiance for the day, enjoying a tour of River’s stadium.

The U-13 squad’s presence in Argentina follows their participation in the Copa Illinois in Rosario, where they reached the finals of the Copa de Plata but were defeated by Estudiantes de Río Cuarto in a penalty shootout. Thiago Messi, wearing the number 10 jersey, stood out as a key player, and Suárez scored their lone goal in the final match.

Strengthening Ties with Argentine Football

Beyond the tournament, the Florida-based delegation scheduled friendly matches with Racing Club's youth teams and attended professional league games across the country. They also visited Newell’s Old Boys, where Lionel Messi began his football journey.

This comprehensive football immersion aligns with Inter Miami’s efforts to blend its growing MLS legacy with global football traditions. The club recently concluded a strong MLS season, earning the Supporters’ Shield with 74 points before exiting the playoffs in a close defeat to Atlanta United.

• Historic Visits: The team toured La Bombonera and El Monumental, embracing Argentina's rich football culture.
• Family Connections: Thiago Messi and Benjamín Suárez, sons of football legends, were among the players, adding a special dimension to the tour.
• Tournament Highlights: Inter Miami U-13 reached the Copa de Plata final in Rosario, with Thiago Messi and Suárez as standout players.
• Friendlies and Exploration: The squad faced Racing's youth teams and visited key stadiums and clubs, including Newell’s Old Boys.
• MLS Legacy: Inter Miami’s first team capped a successful season with the Supporters’ Shield but faced a playoff elimination against Atlanta United.

The young squad's activities in Argentina highlight their growth opportunities and connections to football's deep traditions, reinforcing Inter Miami's commitment to the sport’s global roots.