Miami coach Mascherano will make his debut in Vegas’ friendly against America

Inter Miami CF kicks off the 2025 preseason with a friendly against Liga MX giants América on January 18 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“We look forward to a competitive and exciting match, a match that will benefit both clubs as we continue to grow and inspire our fans around the world,” said Santiago Baños, sports president of América.

Inter Miami enters the game having won the 2024 Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield and set the league record for most points in a single season with 74, while América could start the preseason as three-time Liga MX champions.

The Mexico City side became back-to-back winners during the Apertura 2023 and 2024 Clausura, sealing a record third straight after beating CF Monterrey 3-2 on aggregate in the 2024 Apertura final.

In addition to the pre-season friendly, the two teams could potentially meet in the 2025 edition of the Concacaf Champions Cup after qualifying.

The January 18 match will serve as the managerial debut for new head coach Javier Mascherano, who replaced Gerardo Martino following the team’s elimination from the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs.

Inter Miami also announced a friendly against Orlando City on February 14 in Tampa, Florida. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas confirmed the team will go on a preseason tour while taking the necessary precautions to protect players from injury.

Mas added that the Herons learned from past mistakes during the 2023 tour, when they flew across the world to play in Hong Kong, Japan, El Salvador and Saudi Arabia.