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Alianza Lima striker Alan Cantero was overcome with emotion after receiving Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi’s number 10 jersey after a preseason friendly match dubbed “Noche Blanquiazul 2026,” highlighting the 38-year-old’s huge global impact and his deep personal inspiration for players around the world.
The jersey swapping incident occurred after Inter Miami‘s first game of 2026, a 3–0 preseason loss to Peru’s professional sports club at Matute Stadium in Lima, Peru.
Forward Cantero, who describes soccer star Messi as his role model and inspiration in life, broke down in tears while discussing the moment, calling it an honor and a dream come true.
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The club’s forward said he plans to frame the jersey at home, highlighting Messi’s humility and the profound impact of meeting his hero (Messi), which further highlights Messi’s legendary status.
Such exchanges reinforce Messi’s reputation for generosity and accessibility, in addition to his status as a soccer star. And it also highlights that receiving a Messi jersey is like winning a trophy for the person following him.
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