Messi set to make Inter Miami debut in Leagues Cup opener against Cruz Azul

Lionel Messi's debut gameday with Inter Miami has arrived.

Messi was expected to play Friday night when Inter Miami hosted Cruz Azul in a Leagues Cup match at his new home stadium. Team officials said all tickets — about 21,000, in a newly expanded stadium — had been sold, though plenty were available for resale in the hours leading up to the match in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Messi arrived with the team about two hours before game time, dressed in the team colours — pink T-shirt, black shorts. He stopped for a few photos and handshakes as he entered the tunnel leading to the locker room.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have arrived for their Inter Miami debuts