Inter Miami began their 2026 preseason campaign. They faced Alianza Lima in Peru. The result was a surprising 3-0 defeat. Alianza Lima secured a dominant victory. This match kicked off Miami’s Champions Tour. It happened on January 24, 2026. Many fans expected a stronger showing. The team looked rusty on the field.
Alianza Lima Dominates from the Start
Alianza Lima controlled the tempo early. They imposed their style on the game. The home crowd was energized. The Peruvian side looked more prepared. They capitalized on opportunities. Paolo Guerrero opened the scoring. He found the net in the 29th minute. This came from a rebound. It followed a saved shot. Guerrero struck again six minutes later. He scored his second goal. This put Alianza Lima up 2-0. Inter Miami struggled to create chances. They failed to register a shot on target. This happened in the first half.
Miami’s Struggles and Key Players
Lionel Messi was present for Inter Miami. However, he had a quiet game. Messi’s lone first-half chance was a free kick. It sailed over the crossbar. Luis Suárez also had a quiet outing. He turned 39 on match day. Rodrigo De Paul was also on the field. The team’s offensive output was low. They had difficulty breaking down Alianza’s defense. Many expected more from the star-studded lineup. The lack of match fitness was evident.
New Faces and Early Setbacks
Inter Miami debuted several new players. Dayne St. Clair started in goal. He is the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Sergio Reguilón also made his debut. He is a new signing from Spain. Unfortunately, Reguilón suffered an injury. It happened early in the first half. He left the field with a knee issue. This was a worrying sign for Miami. Other players also made their first appearances. David Ayala and Facundo Mura debuted. Homegrown players Dániel Pintér and Alexander Shaw also played. The team featured six debuts in total.
Second Half and the Final Blow
Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul played for 63 minutes. They were then substituted. This allowed other players to gain experience. Miami showed more urgency in the second half. They increased their attacking pressure. Luis Suárez missed a key chance. Rodrigo De Paul passed him the ball. Suárez was unmarked in front of goal. However, he shot over the crossbar. Alianza Lima managed the game well. They added a third goal in the 72nd minute. Luis Ramos scored it. He finished calmly from close range. Federico Girotti provided the assist. This sealed the 3-0 victory for Alianza Lima.
Preseason Implications for Inter Miami
This loss highlights some early concerns. Inter Miami has had limited time to train. They are still integrating new signings. The team looked uncharacterquinced. This is typical for an early preseason match. However, the scoreline was a surprise. Alianza Lima was fine-tuning their own preparations. They had played other friendlies. This result serves as a reality check for Miami. They are the reigning MLS Cup champions. High expectations continue for the upcoming season. Coach Javier Mascherano stressed the need for rebuilding. This match showed they have work to do. The team will continue its Champions Tour. Future matches are scheduled in Colombia and Ecuador. These games offer more chances to build chemistry. They also provide opportunities to improve fitness. The team needs to find its rhythm soon.
Looking Ahead for Miami
The 3-0 defeat was not the start Miami wanted. It was a humbling experience. The team must address its issues quickly. Fitness and cohesion are key. The talent is undoubtedly there. However, translating that talent into performance takes time. The loss to Alianza Lima provides valuable lessons. It serves as motivation for the months ahead. Fans will be watching closely. They hope for a strong rebound. The 2026 MLS season is approaching fast. Inter Miami aims to defend its title. This preseason journey is crucial. It will shape their performance for the year. The road ahead requires dedication and improvement. This friendly match was just the beginning.
