Football legend Lionel Messi is expected to grace the pitch in Ohio for a highly anticipated Major League Soccer (MLS) clash between Inter Miami CF and the Columbus Crew. This upcoming match, scheduled for September 27 at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, holds particular significance as it potentially marks one of Messi's final club appearances before his ceremonial international retirement.
Anticipated Showdown: Messi and Inter Miami to Face Columbus Crew
On September 27, 2026, football enthusiasts will turn their attention to ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Ohio, where Inter Miami CF, featuring global icon Lionel Messi, will challenge the Columbus Crew. Speculation has been rife regarding Messi's participation in MLS fixtures; however, strong indications suggest his presence in this pivotal encounter. The Miami Herald has reported that Messi is slated to play, subsequently traveling to Buenos Aires for a celebratory match on October 6 with the Argentinian national team against Benin, honoring his impending departure from international play.
The Columbus Crew enters this match with momentum, having recently secured a 2-0 victory against CF Montreal on September 19 in Quebec, Canada, bolstering their playoff aspirations. Inter Miami CF, currently holding a comfortable third place in the Eastern Conference standings, is also vying for a strong finish to the season. The teams previously met on August 2 at Nu Stadium, resulting in a 2-2 draw, with Messi making an appearance from the bench in the 52nd minute. This encounter in Ohio promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with tickets for the event expected to be fully sold out. For those still hoping to witness the match live, secondary market platforms such as GameTime, StubHub, and Ticketmaster are offering tickets, with prices ranging from $150 to $6,851, reflecting the high demand for this star-studded fixture.
The continued presence of global superstars like Lionel Messi in the MLS not only elevates the league's profile but also generates immense excitement among fans. Such matches serve as powerful catalysts for fostering engagement and growth within the sport, drawing in new audiences and solidifying existing fan bases. The opportunity to witness a legendary player in action provides a unique and memorable experience, transcending mere sporting competition to become a cultural event. This fixture underscores the evolving landscape of North American soccer, demonstrating its capacity to attract and retain top-tier talent, thereby enriching the overall sporting spectacle.
