Brandon Vazquez, Lionel Messi, Inter Miami
17 May 2026
Brandon Vazquez described the surreal experience of playing against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, admitting moments on the pitch felt like childhood FIFA video game dreams becoming reality. Several MLS players also reflected on the pressure of facing Messi’s star-studded squad.
Vazquez recalled facing Messi and Luis Suárez during Monterrey’s Champions Cup clash, while Obed Vargas detailed confronting Messi during a Leagues Cup match. Players explained balancing admiration with competitiveness became necessary to avoid being overwhelmed during major fixtures.