Starting with the 2024 preseason, Inter Miami has taken advantage of the winter break before the MLS regular season to broaden its international presence and generate significant commercial revenue. In 2024, the club held a preseason match in El Salvador. In 2025, Inter Miami continued this trend by traveling to Peru, Panama, and Honduras.
The 2026 tour expanded further. Along with a match in Puerto Rico against Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle on February 13, the club visited Colombia and Ecuador for the first time and returned to Lima, Peru, to play against Alianza Lima. This experience offered a unique insight into football cultures that differ from MLS, especially for a team with many South American players.
Competitive Results and Atmosphere in South America
Inter Miami’s last match on the South American tour was in Guayaquil against Barcelona SC, Ecuador’s most popular club. The outcome was decent, with Lionel Messi and new striker German Berterame both scoring. However, the team’s defense faced challenges. Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair had a tough game, and after a late red card for Inter Miami, Barcelona SC scored again. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, and the atmosphere was intense, far from a typical friendly.
Over three matches, Inter Miami lost 3-0 to Alianza Lima, a game that highlighted defensive issues. They bounced back with a 2-1 victory over Atlético Nacional in Medellín before drawing with Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
These results reflect a competitive level often seen in Copa Libertadores matches. Gaining four points from three away games can usually secure advancement in the group stage, especially as there are talks of Inter Miami’s participation in the 2027 Copa Libertadores.
A Memorable Atmosphere in Ecuador