The Inter Miami supporters group "La Familia" stated the protests against Lionel Messi and the team in the last match against the Portland Timbers.

Under Leagues Cup rules, a draw after regulation meant straight to penalties. Messi stepped up first for Miami and converted, while FC Dallas' Paxton Pomykal missed his attempt. That opened the door for Cremaschi, who kept his composure on Miami's fifth kick to seal a 5‑3 shootout win and push Inter Miami through, according to CBS Sports.

The Associated Press' Ronald Blum noted that Inter Miami has a total payroll of $54.6 million, well ahead of LAFC ($32.7 million) in second place. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul accounts for $9.7 million overall, while forward Germán Berterame, defenders Sergio Reguilón and Facundo Mura and winger Tadeo Allende all crack seven figures.

NEW YORK (Monday, March 2, 2026) – Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi was voted the Major League Soccer Player of the Matchday presented by Michelob ULTRA for Matchday 2 of the 2026 MLS season. Messi scored two goals in Inter Miami’s 4-2 road victory ...