Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said he has given little importance to Lionel Messi 's provocative celebration following his goal against Club América on Saturday, before claiming that Liga MX teams have always been "hostile" against Argentinians.

Lionel Messi scored a goal and made his presence known throughout the first half as Inter Miami beat Mexican superpower Club America 3-2 on penalty kicks after the teams played to a 2-2 deadlock in regulation on Saturday night.

Messi faced plenty of backlash from those in Mexico after mocking their lack of World Cup success compared to Argentina's decorated history. Notably, former "El Tri" international Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista called out the Argentinian for a "lack of professionalism and education."

Lionel Messi celebrated Inter Miami's equalizer by taunting Club America and Mexico fans for their lack of World Cup success.

Inter Miami may have only been back in preseason play for about five days or so but Lionel Messi didn't need long to score his first goal of 2025 facing Club America in Las Vegas or to show off a unique celebration.

Meanwhile, forward Fafa Picault, one of the new players in Inter Miami camp, is feeling at home. The 33-year-old Haitian American spent his teen years in Cutler Bay, where his family still lives. He attended Miami Killian High School and played for local youth clubs and the Fort Lauderdale Strikers before heading overseas.

Messi wants Neymar. Aware that the Club World Cup will demand a much higher level of competition than the MLS, Inter Miami is considering several top-tier reinforcements. Lionel M

Lionel Messi has shown top form with Inter Miami in 2025, scoring against Club America. However, a heated exchange with fans sparked criticism from former players and supporters. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano addressed the incident,