Messi Scores, but Inter Miami Settles for 2-2 Tie with Austin FC in New Stadium Opener

Late Suarez goal salvages a point for the home team in the highly anticipated match.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:57am

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Lionel Messi scored the first goal at Inter Miami's new Nu Stadium, but the defending MLS champions had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Austin FC in the opening match at their new home. Messi's header in the 10th minute gave Inter Miami the early lead, but Austin responded with goals from Guilherme Biro and Jayden Nelson to take a 2-1 advantage. Luis Suarez's late equalizer in the 82nd minute rescued a point for the home side, who are now unbeaten in their last five MLS matches.

Why it matters

The highly anticipated opening of Inter Miami's new stadium was seen as a major milestone for the club, which has played its home matches in Fort Lauderdale since joining MLS in 2020. The presence of global superstars Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez has brought increased attention and excitement to the franchise, and this match represented an opportunity to showcase the team's talent and the new facility to a national audience.

The details

Inter Miami took the lead early when Messi headed home a cross in the 10th minute, but Austin FC responded with a goal from Guilherme Biro in the 6th minute and then went ahead in the 53rd minute on a strike from substitute Jayden Nelson. Suarez's late equalizer in the 82nd minute salvaged a point for the home side, who missed several chances to take the lead late in the match.

  • The match was played on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Messi scored in the 10th minute to give Inter Miami the early lead.
  • Guilherme Biro scored for Austin FC in the 6th minute to tie the match.
  • Jayden Nelson put Austin FC ahead in the 53rd minute.
  • Luis Suarez scored the tying goal for Inter Miami in the 82nd minute.

The players

Lionel Messi

Legendary Argentine footballer who joined Inter Miami in 2023 and scored the first goal in the opening match of the team's new stadium.

Luis Suarez

Uruguayan striker who plays for Inter Miami and scored the late equalizing goal to earn a point for the home team.

Guilherme Biro

Austin FC midfielder who scored the first goal in the new Nu Stadium.

Jayden Nelson

Austin FC substitute who came on in the second half and scored the go-ahead goal for the visitors.

Don Garber

MLS Commissioner who was in attendance for the historic opening match at Nu Stadium.

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What they’re saying

“We already know what Leo is capable of and the trouble he causes for the opposition, and even without the ball as well. And Luis, too — whenever he's inside the box, he's lethal, and he proved that once again.”

— Maxi Falcon, Inter Miami defender

“We got to be the villains.”

— Brad Stuver, Austin FC goalkeeper

“I think our best days are still ahead. David shined a light on our league, and Leo's taking that torch, and he's showing it around. And we're getting calls from players around the world.”

— Don Garber, MLS Commissioner

What’s next

Inter Miami will look to build on this result as they continue their inaugural season in their new stadium, while Austin FC will aim to get back on track after this draw against the defending champions.

The takeaway

Despite the star power of Messi and Suarez, Inter Miami was unable to secure the victory in the highly anticipated opening match at Nu Stadium. However, the team's ability to rally for a late equalizer demonstrates their resilience and the excitement surrounding the new facility and roster.