‘We believe’ – How Lionel Messi has made Inter Miami winners even when he isn’t playing

That was the case for Inter Miami’s latest MLS outing against Sporting Kansas City, with the Argentine icon away on 2026 World Cup qualifying duty with his country. Tata Martino’s side prevailed 3-2 in Messi’s absence, keeping them in the hunt for what appeared to be an unlikely play-off spot when an all-time great was welcomed onto their books.

Leonardo Campana was on target against Kansas City and told reporters afterwards of how Messi has helped to deliver a remarkable reversal in fortune for a side that was struggling for any kind of spark prior to his arrival. The Ecuador international striker said: “I said it yesterday, I think [Messi] gives a lot of players confidence, now we believe it, we know what we’re capable of. That was the main thing in getting the three points today.”

Martino added on Inter Miami proving that they can compete when Messi does not form part of their matchday plans: “For a group of players who work so much with a team-mate who’s the best player in the world, when he’s not playing, it’s also comforting to them to know they can win.”

Inter Miami are yet to suffer defeat since Messi’s move to the United States was completed, with 11 victories – including some in penalty shootouts – picked up from 12 fixtures across Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup and MLS competition.