2 min read
Football Insider

Inter Miami Secures Thrilling Preseason Victory Over Atlético Nacional: A Recap

Inter Miami's exciting 2-1 win against Atlético Nacional saw Luis Suárez shining on the scoresheet and Germán Berterame making a promising debut. Read on for a detailed summary of the match and key takeaways.

Inter Miami Secures Thrilling Preseason Victory Over Atlético Nacional: A Recap

Inter Miami claimed a dramatic 2-1 friendly win over Atlético Nacional in Medellín, with Luis Suárez on the scoresheet and Germán Berterame making his first appearance for the club. Lionel Messi played 76 minutes, while a late own goal sealed Miami’s first preseason victory after a tough loss in Peru.It was Miami's first preseason victory in front of a packed Atanasio Girardot Stadium, but it wasn't straightforward.The Colombian side struck first in the 25th minute when Juan Manuel Rengifo fired a long-range shot past the goalkeeper, rewarding Atlético Nacional’s early dominance. Inter Miami responded after halftime, capitalizing on a defensive mistake as Lionel Messi’s shot hit the post before Suárez reacted quickest to score the equalizer.Shortly after his goal, Suárez was substituted to make way for Berterame, who entered wearing No. 19 and immediately showed promising chemistry. The Mexico international was involved in Miami’s best attacking sequences and came close to registering an assist when he set up Mateo Silvetti, whose shot narrowly missed the target.Messi, who played 76 minutes to the delight of the fans in attendance, orchestrated several key moments before exiting to a standing ovation. Just when the match appeared headed for a draw, Inter Miami found a fortunate winner in stoppage time as midfielder Elkin Rivero accidentally turned the ball into his own net.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe victory comes as a confidence boost for Javier Mascherano’s squad after a preseason loss to Alianza Lima. Inter Miami will continue its preparations in Ecuador, where they will face Barcelona SC on Feb. 7, a match that will allow Messi, Berterame, Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul to further build chemistry on the field.

1

A Dramatic Encounter in Medellín

Inter Miami's clash with Atlético Nacional in Medellín was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Colombian side initially taking the lead thanks to Juan Manuel Rengifo's superb strike. Miami fought back valiantly after halftime, with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez showcasing their lethal partnership to level the score.

2

Berterame's Arrival and Promising Performance

Germán Berterame, making his first appearance for Inter Miami, entered the field bringing a breath of fresh air to the team. Wearing the No. 19 jersey, he displayed promising chemistry with his new teammates, particularly coming close to setting up a goal for Mateo Silvetti.

3

Messi's Impact and Standing Ovation

Lionel Messi, after an impressive 76-minute display, orchestrated key moments for Inter Miami before exiting the pitch to a well-deserved standing ovation from the fans. His presence and contributions were crucial in Miami's victory.

4

Late Drama and Own Goal Winner

As the match seemed destined for a draw, Inter Miami found a stroke of luck in stoppage time when Elkin Rivero accidentally deflected the ball into his own net, securing the team's first preseason victory. The dramatic conclusion left both sets of fans on the edge of their seats.

5

Looking Ahead: Preparations in Ecuador

The victory over Atlético Nacional serves as a morale-booster for Javier Mascherano's squad following a tough loss to Alianza Lima. Inter Miami will now shift their focus to facing Barcelona SC in Ecuador, offering another opportunity for Messi, Berterame, Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul to further gel as a team.

Published on Feb 1, 2026