Approximately 10,000 spectators were in attendance at the Inter Miami CF Youth International Cup Ceremony and Kickoff Match of the Tournament

MIAMI, FL. – On Friday during a beautiful night of fútbol in South Florida, the Inter Miami CF U-12 Academy Team faced off against their in-state rivals, the Orlando City SC U-12 Academy Team, in front of an electric crowd of 10,000 supporters at Chase Stadium. The match ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw, marking the opening of the inaugural Inter Miami CF Youth International Cup.

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Inter Miami CF stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez were in attendance to inspire the next generation of fútbol stars and escorted the youth players to the pitch, as well as joined their prematch photos. Prior to kickoff, Messi addressed the players and fans with words of encouragement.

“Welcome! It’s beautiful to see the stadium like this for this event. It’s a pleasure to have you here at home to enjoy this beautiful experience. I know the sacrifices parents make every day, taking their children to training sessions, matches, and tournaments like this,” said Lionel Messi. “We, as parents, try to do everything possible to make them happy, and fútbol is happiness among other things. It’s very beautiful that everyone is here, and I hope you enjoy this beautiful experience and tournament. Beyond the result, I hope you have great moments of enjoyment with your friends, teammates, and families. May it be an experience that lasts a lifetime.”

The Inter Miami CF Youth International Cup is open for boys and girls teams from the U-9 through U-19 age groups and will offer a high level of competition, with the tournament drawing teams from across Florida, the United States, and internationally.

Teams in the inaugural Youth International Cup will be competing in one of four levels of competition – MLS NEXT (only for U-13 to U-19 age groups), Gold, Silver and Bronze – with matches set to take place at Inter Miami CF’s the Florida Blue Training Center in Ft. Lauderale, as well as other facilities and complexes across Broward County. Group play games will be played on Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26. Teams will have the option to play on Friday, May 24. All Finals will be played on Monday, May 27.

 

 

 

 

 

Photo/InterMiamiCF

 

Inter Miami CF contributed to this column