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Own goal in the final minutes gives Inter Miami victory over Atlético Nacional in Medellín
MEDELLÍN, Colombia.– An own goal in the final minutes sealed the 1-2 victory of Inter Miami over Atlético Nacional at the Atanasio Girardot stadium, in a friendly match marked by the presence of Lionel Messi, who played 76 minutes before a packed audience.
The home team opened the scoring with a brilliant goal by young Juan Manuel Rengifo, while the American team’s tie came through the Uruguayan Luis Suárez, after a play initiated by Messi. When the match seemed to be heading for a draw, an unfortunate deflection by midfielder Elkin Rivero in the last play of the match decreed the visiting team’s victory.
From the start, Atlético Nacional imposed rhythm and pressure, generating several clear chances in front of the goal defended by Dayne St. Clair. The reward came in the 25th minute, when Rengifo unleashed a powerful shot from mid-range that left the Inter Miami goalkeeper with no chance.
The team led by the coaching staff of the Herons reacted after the break. At minute 54, an error in the clearance by goalkeeper Harlen Castillo allowed Messi to try for goal; the rebound was taken advantage of by Suárez, who finished with precision to equalize the actions.
The most emotional moment of the night came in the 76th minute, when Messi left the field to applause and chants from the public, who came in droves to see him in action. Shortly after, in added time, a dangerous cross ended in an own goal by Rivero, giving Inter Miami their first preseason victory.
After the commitment, Inter Miami will continue its preparation with matches in Ecuador, while Atlético Nacional will resume official competition by facing América de Cali for the Colombian league.
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