

Inter Miami claimed a thrilling 1-0 victory over the previously unbeaten Columbus Crew in one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2025 Major League Soccer season. While Lionel Messi did not find the back of the net, his presence once again played a major role, not just on the field, but in the record books.
The game, which featured the final two undefeated teams in MLS this season, drew a massive audience. A first-half header from Benjamin Cremaschi proved to be the deciding factor, securing Miami’s place atop the Eastern Conference standings. Columbus controlled much of the possession and created several chances, but Miami’s defense held strong, ensuring a crucial win.
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Off the pitch, Messi’s influence was felt in the stands. Columbus Crew announced that 60,614 fans packed Huntington Bank Stadium, setting a new attendance record for a non-NFL event at the venue. For comparison, the stadium’s highest-ever attendance was 73,718, set during an NFL matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2002.
Setting records everywhere
In anticipation of overwhelming demand, Columbus moved the match from their usual home at Lower.com Field (capacity: 20,371) to the significantly larger home of the Cleveland Browns. The decision proved wise, as tens of thousands of fans turned up to catch a glimpse of the Argentine superstar.
This marks the second consecutive week that Inter Miami has set attendance records while playing on the road. Just days earlier, 62,358 fans packed Soldier Field for Miami’s goalless draw against the Chicago Fire, marking another stadium record.
With momentum on their side, Miami now turns its attention to the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals, where they will face the Vancouver Whitecaps on Thursday. The match will take place at BC Place, a venue with a capacity of 54,500, offering yet another opportunity for Messi to drive MLS attendance numbers to historic heights.
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