Inter Miami CF secured a thrilling 1-0 victory over the Columbus Crew on April 19th, 2025, thanks to a spectacular diving header from Benjamin Cremaschi in the 30th minute. The match, played in front of a record-breaking crowd of 60,614 at Huntington Bank Stadium in Cleveland (home of the Cleveland Browns), set a new single-game attendance record for the Crew and marked the largest non-NFL event in the stadium’s history. The game’s relocation from Columbus was a direct result of the immense popularity of Inter Miami’s star player, Lionel Messi, drawing huge crowds wherever the team plays.
The atmosphere was electric, with notable attendees including Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson, Cavs center Tristan Thompson, and Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. The sheer volume of fans, many of whom were Crew supporters despite the location change, highlighted Messi’s global appeal and the captivating power of his presence in MLS. Cremaschi’s goal, his first of the season, was a testament to his skill and composure under pressure. He expertly out-jumped Columbus defender Malte Amundsen to connect with Marcelo Weigandt’s cross, sending the ball past goalkeeper Patrick Schulte.
The goal, scored in front of the Cleveland Browns’ Dawg Pound section, was a pivotal moment in the match. It was also the first goal scored by a Miami player other than Messi in 277 minutes of play, underscoring the team’s reliance on their superstar while demonstrating the growing capabilities of their supporting cast. Messi himself had a near-miss late in the first half, narrowly missing the goal with a powerful shot from outside the box.
Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari, played a crucial role in securing the victory, making three impressive diving saves in the second half to maintain the clean sheet. The team’s strategic substitutions, including the replacement of Luis Suárez with Telasco Segovia, reflected Miami’s balanced approach, considering their upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Coach Javier Mascherano emphasized the importance of managing minutes and maintaining freshness for the crucial upcoming match.
The win improved Inter Miami’s record to 5-3-0, solidifying their position among the top teams in MLS. Meanwhile, Columbus fell to 5-3-1. This nail-biting victory showcases Inter Miami’s growing strength and provides a captivating glimpse into the exciting future of Major League Soccer. The record-breaking attendance further emphasizes the league’s expanding popularity and the enduring impact of Lionel Messi’s presence.
