Argentinian soccer superstar Lionel Messi has dazzled spectators in Tokyo with his great performance in a friendly match between his US-based Inter Miami and the 2023 champion of Japan's top league, Vissel Kobe.

The Major League Soccer team clashed against the J1 League winner at the Japan National Stadium on Wednesday.

Messi remained on the bench as a substitute in the first half. But when he stood along the sideline to take to the pitch at the 60th minute, more than 20,000 fans in the stands welcomed him with loud cheers.

Messi showcased his trademark dribbling technique. He also made a shot at the 79th minute, but failed to score a goal.

Neither team scored throughout the 90 minutes. But Vissel Kobe prevailed over Inter Miami in a penalty shootout 4-3.

Ahead of the match, members of both sides offered prayers for the Noto Peninsula and other parts of central Japan that were hit by a deadly earthquake on New Year's Day.