In Photos: Lionel Messi’s visit to PayPal Park vs. the San Jose Earthquakes

May 19, 2025 Douglas Zimmerman San Jose Earthquakes 0

Lionel Messi of InterMiami CF looks for an open pass at PayPal Park. (Jose Moreno / Soccer Bay Area)

Last week, Lionel Messi and his MLS side, Inter Miami FC, visited PayPal Park to face off with the hometown San Jose Earthquakes. What transpired was a barn-burner of a game with multiple goals and drama. When the final whistle was blown, the teams were tied 3-3.

“He’s a terrific player. Our guys did a good job,” said Quakes head coach Bruce Arena after the game. “I think the opening couple of minutes were crazy—to concede a goal that early was poor on our part. I think the second and third goals, we could have been better. As any coach would tell you, we always look at what we could have done a little bit better. So give them credit—three goals, the finishes were great. So take the point and move on.”

Lionel Messi of InterMiami CF is challenged by Cristian Espinoza of San Jose Earthquakes while dribbling through the midfield at PayPal Park.

An Inter Miami CF fan holds up a sign supporting Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF at PayPal Park. (Jose Moreno / Soccer Bay Area)

“I’ll remember it for the rest of my life,” added Quakes midfielder Beau Leroux. “It’s an honor to share the field with him and all the great players on our team and their team.”

See more of Soccer Bay Area photographer Jose Moreno’s images below: