Messi and Miami chase another record in NFL Cleveland

Inter Miami are chasing more than just three points this weekend – they’re protecting an unbeaten start to the 2025 MLS season. The team traveled Friday to Cleveland, Ohio, where they’ll face Columbus Crew in the most anticipated matchup of Week 9.

This clash, taking place Saturday at the home of the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, is being billed as a “preview of the Western Conference final” – a marquee showdown between the league’s two top sides. More than 65,000 fans are expected to pack the stadium, drawn by one name above all: Lionel Messi.

Messi drives sellout in NFL stadium

Javier Mascherano has confirmed a fully fit squad for the trip, with Messi leading the team as always. With that, a full house at Cleveland Browns Stadium (capacity: 67,431) is virtually guaranteed – yet another massive turnout for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and reigning World Cup champion.

Since his arrival in the United States, Messi has been a box office sensation, breaking attendance records across the country. This weekend will likely be no exception.

Another crowd milestone within reach

A sold-out stadium in Cleveland would mark another addition to Messi’s growing list of attendance records in the US. Just last week, 62,358 fans packed Soldier Field in Chicago to watch Inter Miami take on the Fire – the largest-ever soccer crowd in that city.

Earlier in 2024, Messi also helped set the all-time attendance record for New England Revolution, with 65,512 fans filling Gillette Stadium for Miami’s visit.

Only one stadium appearance remains unmatched: Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, where 72,610 spectators turned out in 2024 to see Messi face Sporting KC – a number unlikely to be surpassed this weekend, but Cleveland is expected to come close.

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