In an exciting turn of events, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami has confirmed its participation in the Riyadh Season Cup, putting to rest the previous uncertainties surrounding the Saudi tournament. Contrary to earlier reports, Inter Miami clarified that it will indeed be part of the prestigious event scheduled for February 2024.
The Major League Soccer (MLS) side revealed its upcoming matches, with a face-off against Al Hilal on January 29 and a highly anticipated encounter with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr on February 1. Both Al Hilal and Al Nassr currently lead the Saudi Pro League, with Ronaldo claiming the title of the league’s leading scorer.
Inter Miami’s Sporting Director, Chris Henderson, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming challenges, stating, “These matches will offer important tests for our team, which will benefit us as we approach the new season. We’re excited for our group to get the chance to go up against teams with as much quality as Al-Hilal and Al Nassr.”
The clash between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is a highlight, as the two football legends have faced each other 36 times throughout their illustrious careers. Messi’s teams have secured 16 victories, Ronaldo’s teams have won 11 times, and they’ve settled for a draw on nine occasions. Messi boasts 22 goals and 11 assists in these encounters, while Ronaldo has netted 21 goals and provided one assist.
This marks Inter Miami’s inaugural international tour, which includes stops in El Salvador and Hong Kong, showcasing the team’s commitment to engaging with global fans. The Riyadh Season Cup presents an exciting opportunity for the club to connect with passionate supporters and captivate audiences worldwide with these dream matchups.
Lionel Messi’s move to MLS has brought a significant focus on Saudi Arabia, where he previously participated in the Riyadh Season Cup as part of Paris Saint-Germain. The tournament has become a key platform for Saudi Arabia to establish its presence in world football, attracting renowned players and fostering international collaborations.
