The Atanasio Girardot Stadium is preparing to witness a historic moment. Atlético Nacional hosts Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami in an international friendly that is already being hailed as “the match of the century” in Antioquia, fueled by the presence of Lionel Messi and other world-class stars in the city of Medellín.
The match transcends the sporting realm and becomes a global event that puts Colombia at the center of international soccer, with a sold-out stadium and total anticipation to see the Argentine star on Colombian soil.
A friendly international with a World Cup flavor
For Atlético Nacional, led by Diego Arias, this match represents a key opportunity to test themselves against the international elite, after their first Liga BetPlay fixtures were postponed. The coaching staff has taken advantage of this break to fine-tune the squad’s physical and tactical preparation.
For its part, Inter Miami, under the guidance of Javier Mascherano, is looking to fine-tune its lineup after an uneven South American tour, with the goal of being in top form for the start of the official Major League Soccer (MLS) season.
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How do the clubs get to this matchup?
Atlético Nacional
Atlético Nacional faces the match with the core of its main squad available. The Colombian “King of Cups” has focused his preparations on solidifying key partnerships, highlighting David Ospina’s return in goal and Edwin Cardona’s role as the team’s creative linchpin.
One of the game’s main attractions will be the possible unveiling of Cristian “Chicho” Arango as the team’s newest addition, which has heightened the expectations of the verdolaga fans. Nacional will look to leverage their home advantage and competitive pace to counter the individual talent of the U.S. team.
Inter Miami
Inter Miami arrives in Medellín after falling 0-3 to Alianza Lima in Lima in a preseason match. The team is in the midst of a full adjustment process, integrating its stars with the new signings from the transfer market.
The delegation includes Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul, three world champions who headline a star-studded roster. Although recent results haven’t been positive, the coaching staff considers these friendlies fundamental for gaining rhythm and improving the team’s collective performance. Rotations are expected to manage the physical workload.
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Possible lineups for the match
Atlético Nacional
- Goalkeeper: David Ospina
- Defenders: Andrés Román, Simón García, William Tesillo y Milton Casco
- Midfielders: Juan Manuel Zapata, Matheus Uribe, Marlos Moreno, Edwin Cardona y Andrés Sarmiento
- Forward: Alfredo Morelos
Inter Miami
- Goalkeeper: Dayne St. Clair
- Defenders: Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcón, Noah Allen y Sergio Reguilón
- Midfielders: Mateo Silvetti, Yannick Bright, Rodrigo De Paul y Telasco Segovia
- Forward: Lionel Messi y Luis Suárez
Friendly match details: Atlético Nacional vs. Inter Miami
- Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
- Time: United States (ET): 5:00 PM | Colombia and Peru: 5:00 PM | Mexico: 4:00 PM | Argentina and Chile: 7:00 PM
- Stadium: Atanasio Girardot Stadium, Medellín
- Broadcast: Apple TV and MLS Season Pass (United States) | Canal RCN (Colombia)
