What happens when a soccer team with Lionel Messi faces off against a struggling opponent? You get fireworks—literally and figuratively. On April 19, 2026, Inter Miami triumphed over Colorado Rapids with a nail-biting score of 3-2.
This match was not just another game; it drew an astounding attendance of 75,824 fans at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver. This figure marks the second-highest single-game attendance in MLS history. To put that in perspective, the previous record for Colorado Rapids was only 61,202 fans back in July 2002.
Both teams entered the field with equal footing—12 points each—making this matchup even more intriguing. Yet, it was Messi who stole the show once again. He scored two of Inter Miami’s three goals, extending their unbeaten streak to seven games.
But let’s not overlook Colorado. They fought valiantly and managed to score twice themselves. The back-and-forth nature of this match kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
This kind of excitement is what MLS needs. Big crowds have followed Inter Miami since Messi joined the club in July 2023, and it’s clear that his presence elevates not just his team but also the league itself.
As we look ahead, questions remain about how both teams will perform for the rest of the season. Will Colorado bounce back from this close defeat? Can Inter Miami maintain their momentum? Details remain unconfirmed.
One thing is certain: matches like these are what fans live for. The thrill of competition, heightened by star players like Messi, keeps fans coming back for more. What’s next for these teams as they navigate through a competitive 2026 MLS season?
