Lionel Messi Takes the Field as FC Dallas Hosts Inter Miami in Preseason Clash at Cotton Bowl Stadium

Soccer enthusiasts brave chilly weather to witness FC Dallas face Inter Miami, featuring star player Lionel Messi, in a preseason match at Cotton Bowl Stadium.

Chilly weather didn’t deter soccer fans as FC Dallas hosted Inter Miami, including star player Lionel Messi, in a preseason clash at the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium. The iconic venue, last used by FC Dallas in 2009, welcomed over 32,000 fans eager to witness the much-anticipated encounter.

Gates opened at 3 p.m., with temperatures in the 40s and light drizzle during the 5 p.m. kickoff. Dedicated supporters, undeterred by the cold, expressed emotional connections and excitement about witnessing Messi in action.

For many, the match marked a historic return to the Cotton Bowl, the original home of FC Dallas when it was known as the Dallas Burn. Blankets and ponchos were available for sale, but the majority of fans, including 14-year-old Claire Mennel, remained undeterred by the winter rain, driven by their passion for soccer.

The encounter holds special significance for fans like Lauryn Bevis, whose son experiences the excitement of witnessing idols like Messi on the same field where FC Dallas last played in 2009. The match stirred emotions, with fans hoping for redemption after a previous draw against Miami.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, the prevailing sentiment among North Texas soccer enthusiasts was that winter rain wouldn’t hinder their support for FC Dallas and the opportunity to witness one of the greatest players in action.