On Saturday, a buddy and I went down to Mile High Stadium to see the Colorado Rapids take on the absurdly named Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami, better known as Inter Miami.
Usually the Rapid’s play at the historic Dick’s Sporting Goods Arena (“the Anfield of the Rockies”), but this was no ordinary game. The reason myself, friend, and 75k other fans packed into the city’s NFL stadium is due to one man: Messi.
Lionel Messi has been, for my entire life, on of the two best players in the world. In any city in the world, from Albania to Zambia, you’ll still almost certainly see someone walking around with an FC Barcelona shirt on, with a 10 and a Messi on the back.
At 38, his prime years are behind him, and he’s decided to see out the twilight of his career playing in Miami. This has resulted in what amounts to a travelling circus when the team is on the road, as thousands of fans clamour to see the GOAT* in person.
My buddy and I had a great time. We saw Messi score two goals, including the curled winner that brought the house down, but also some scintillating play from the Rapids; 2-3 losers on the day, but a brave efforts nonetheless.
The Rapids, clearly keen to cash in on their newest fans, offered everyone attending two free tickets to their next game at Dick’s, so maybe the family will go check them out as they take on Real Salt Lake City or AC San Antonio.
Overall, a sparkling way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
*Real ballers recognise CR7