Lionel Messi is back in action as Inter Miami embarks on its preseason tour in Honduras, taking on the renowned Club Olimpia Deportivo. The key question surrounds how much playing time Messi will receive during this encounter. With Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano keeping a close eye on player wellness ahead of the busy 2025 MLS season, Saturday's match marks the beginning of a rigorous schedule, featuring five matches in just three weeks. Messi's performance in the initial preseason matches has been impressive, yet his minutes on the field will be strategically managed to prioritize his health for the upcoming MLS campaign and the Concacaf Champions Cup starting this month. Coach Mascherano remarked on Messi's keen self-awareness regarding his fitness, indicating a tailored approach to his playtime. In the early stages of the match, Messi secured his second assist in stoppage time, connecting with Noah Allen for a significant play that bolstered Inter Miami’s lead. The match kicks off at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. in Honduras, 9 p.m. in Argentina) at Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula. Fans can catch the livestream on VAVEL. As the game unfolds, Messi's unique skill set and experience will undoubtedly pose challenges for Olimpia's defense, while the Honduran giants, led by rising star Benguch, will aim to leverage their local prowess and tactical acumen against Inter Miami's star-studded lineup. This friendly encounter promises to showcase both teams' strengths and provide a thrilling kickoff to Messi's ongoing preseason journey.
