80,000 Peruvian fans in awe of Lionel Messi during Inter Miami's preseason clash against Club Universitario de Deportes

Inter Miami continued their preseason tour across Latin America and following a tense 2-2 (3-2 on penalties) win over Club America, they had Club Universitario de Deportes next on their docket in Peru. The game proved to be just as tough with the Peruvian side putting up a tough fight in Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano’s second game in charge.

The Herons dominated, but the game ended scoreless and went to penalties, with Inter Miami winning 5-4.

The standout was the reception Lionel Messi got as the Peruvian fans showed their love and adoration for the superstar, even during the game. When the 37-year-old was substituted, he walked off the field to a raucous ovation with fans of both sides cheering on the Barcelona legend.

Following Messi’s brief interaction with a few Mexican supporters during the Heron’s game against Club America, precautions were reportedly taken for Inter Miami’s trip to Peru. But instead, the Peruvian fans took to Messi and the American side superbly, even surrounding the team bus for a sight of the Argentine as they made their way towards the stadium.

The former Barcelona superstar responded in kind, as he waved to his ardent supporters as the bus passed them. Not only that, the World Cup winner was featured in newspapers all across the city with the headline “God is here in Peru” and the reception continued throughout the match.

With their preseason in full-flow, Inter Miami are still finding its feet under Mascherano, and faces Sporting San Miguelito in Panama next. Following that, the Herons take on Olimpia in Honduras which brings an end to the South and Central American pre-season tour.

However, they return to the United States to face Orlando FC and Sporting Kansas City before their MLS season officially kicks off with a home game against New York City FC.