Messi’s “Golden Night” ended in disappointment with Inter Miami’s loss to NYCFC in a friendly match organized to celebrate his Ballon d’Or win.
- ‘Noche d’Or’ designed to celebrate Messi’s Ballon d’Or
- Miami lost 2-1 to NYCFC
- Messi, Busquets and Alba stood out in a disappointing result
WHAT HAPPENED? In a tribute match to celebrate Messi’s record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or win, the Herons suffered a 2-1 defeat to their usual MLS rivals. The ‘Noche d’Or’ or ‘Golden Night’ friendly match was organized by the MLS and was aimed at giving Messi a good party with the fans as he presented his Ballon d’Or trophy to the Miami faithful.
THE BIG PICTURE: Despite star players such as Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, Miami was outplayed on the pitch, which dampened the atmosphere in Fort Lauderdale after the final whistle. Fans, expecting to witness a celebration, were left disappointed as NYCFC took control, with Talles Magno and Julian Fernandez scoring for the visitors, while substitute Robert Robinson scored a consolation goal for Miami.
Fernandez, the talented 19-year-old Argentine, stole the show as Messi looked frustrated in attack. However, the match also served as Messi’s preparation ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil during the November international break after Miami’s China tour was canceled due to “unforeseen circumstances”.
IN TWO PHOTOS:
GettyGetty Images
WHAT’S NEXT? Messi will return to competitive action on Friday when the Albiceleste take on Uruguay at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires. However, all eyes are on the main match against Brazil on November 21 at the Maracaná, where the two rivals will reignite their rivalry.
Source: Goal