The long-awaited debut of Inter Miami on its South American tour turned into a wake-up call. The 3–0 defeat against Alianza Lima at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva was not just a bad night—it was a clear picture of the problems the U.S. club would face if it truly aimed to take part in the Copa Libertadores. Even with stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul on the field, the team coached by Javier Mascherano was outplayed in intensity, tactical order, and finishing.

From the opening whistle, Alianza Lima dictated the tempo, pressed high, and won most of the individual battles. Inter Miami looked fragile at the back, disjointed in midfield, and blunt in attack—a dangerous mix when facing teams used to the demands of South American competition.

A Night That Exposed the Weaknesses

The standout performer was Paolo Guerrero, who at 42 years old scored twice and laid bare Inter Miami’s defensive problems. His first goal came after a poor buildup from the visitors, beating the defense in the air to head into an empty net. The second followed a slick team move that again found Miami’s back line completely out of shape.

Beyond the goals, the most worrying sign was Inter Miami’s inability to control the match. Messi had little space to operate, Suárez was isolated, and De Paul could not impose himself in midfield. When all three were substituted, Miami’s attacking threat vanished—an alarming sign for any club with international ambitions.

MLS vs. Libertadores: Two Different Worlds

The contrast between MLS and the Copa Libertadores could not have been clearer in Lima. While North American soccer often values possession and a measured pace, South American football is built on relentless pressure, physical duels, and ruthless efficiency. Alianza Lima showed grit, aggression, and an intensity that Inter Miami simply could not match.

To compete in tournaments like the Libertadores, star power is not enough. A team needs a solid structure, a reliable defense, and a midfield capable of surviving under constant pressure. Right now, Inter Miami looks far from that level. Upcoming matches against Atlético Nacional and Barcelona SC will provide further tests, but the opening act in Peru has already sent a clear message.

A Warning Before Dreaming Big

The idea of seeing Inter Miami in the Copa Libertadores is appealing, especially with Messi as the face of the project. But South American football does not forgive mistakes or lack of intensity. What happened against Alianza Lima was more than a defeat—it was a warning. If the club truly wants to compete on that stage, it will need far more than glamour and star names.

For now, the South American tour is not fueling optimism. Instead, it underlines how steep the climb toward the Libertadores would really be.

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