Inter Miami CF Triumphs in Penalty Shootout Against Universitario in Peru
Inter Miami CF kicked off its South American preseason tour with a thrilling penalty shootout Victory over Universitario, following a goalless draw in regular time. The match, played in front of a sold-out crowd of 80,000 at Estadio Monumental “U” in Lima, Peru, marked the team’s second preseason game of 2025.
Javier Mascherano’s Leadership and Tactical Decisions
Under the guidance of new head coach Javier Mascherano, who was overseeing just his second game in charge, Inter Miami showed strong attacking intent. The Argentine manager started star players Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez upfront, signaling his commitment to a competitive approach.
Mascherano also gave a debut to new signing Tadeo Allende, with the player getting over 70 minutes of play before being replaced by Robert Taylor. The Herons showed determination, registering 11 shots and two on target, while dominating possession with 60% of the ball. However, despite their efforts, neither team could break the deadlock in regular time.

Penalty Shootout Decides the Winner
With the score locked at 0-0, the match proceeded directly to penalties, following the same format as their previous friendly against Club America in Las Vegas. Universitario’s Jairo Vélez missed his team’s third penalty, allowing Inter Miami to take control of the shootout. The Herons converted all four of their first penalty kicks, securing a vital lead. Yannick Bright then stepped up to confidently net the decisive penalty and seal Miami’s victory.
Though Messi, Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets did not take part in the penalty shootout (having been substituted before the final whistle), they joined the celebrations with their teammates after the win.
Miami’s Preseason Success Under Mascherano
This victory gives Inter Miami a perfect preseason record of two wins, both achieved through penalty shootouts under the leadership of Mascherano. The team now looks ahead to their next challenge as they travel to Panama to face Sporting San Miguelito at Estadio Rommel Fernández on February 2. The team will then conclude the South and Central American leg of their preseason tour with a match against Olimpia at the Olímpico Metropolitano in Honduras.
Key Takeaways:
- Inter Miami secured a penalty shootout win over Universitario in Peru.
- New manager Javier Mascherano continues his successful preseason run with two victories.
- Messi and Suárez led the attack in the match, while Allende made his debut.
- Miami’s perfect preseason record now includes two penalty shootout victories.
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