Why did Messi celebrate the Iron Man in the game against Inter Miami?

Messi told the Miami Herald last August that the celebrations began after he watched Marvel films with his sons before they started school last year, shortly after his arrival at Inter Miami.

“My three sons are still on vacation and haven’t started school yet, so we watch Marvel superhero movies every night. They came up with the idea and asked me to have a Marvel superhero celebration every time I have a game and score a goal. That’s how it started and we continued this ritual,” Messi said. “Every time we saw a new film, we celebrated a goal. But I only do them at home games when the kids are here near me so we can share those moments. If I see them in the stands, I’ll do them.”

Messi and Inter Miami will face reigning champions Columbus Crew on Wednesday in what could be the biggest game of the MLS season.

With a win, Inter Miami could clinch the MLS Supporters’ Shield, a title awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. It would be Messi’s second title with Inter Miami after winning the 2023 League Cup.