Fans react to Inter Miami’s debut at the Nu Stadium (includes video story)

Inter Miami’s very own Nu Stadium finally debuted over the weekend, turning the page on a new chapter for soccer in South Florida. 

The facility fits over 26,000 fans and cost approximately $350 million. It is part of a $1 billion project—the Miami Freedom Park, which is located just south of Miami International Airport.

Eventually, there will be entertainment and retail establishments. Although the surroundings are still under construction, tickets were sold out for Saturday’s Inter Miami match against Austin F.C.

The home team’s star-player, Lionel Messi, received his own dedicated section at the new stadium. The Messi Stand, a section of the stadium dedicated to the World Cup champion, spans from sections 117-121 in the Lower Bowl and sections 217-223 in the Upper Bowl.

“I think without Messi, all of this doesn’t happen,” said Ethan Strati, an Inter Miami fan, and Broward County resident who played soccer in the college level.

Enzo Passo

Enzo is a reporter for Caplin News. He is a junior majoring in Digital Journalism. He aspires to be an anchor/ reporter. Enzo carries a deep passion for beats like sports, cultural, and political journalism.  Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Enzo was able to build a foundation as a trilingual reporter.

Frida Flores

Frida Flores is a journalism student at FIU, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Digital Communication and Media. She focuses on culture, community, social and political topics that help shape public understanding. Through reporting and writing, she aims to bring attention to voices and experiences that tend to go unheard.