Columbus Soccer Honored at Inter Miami Game
- Oscar Pinto
- May 4
- 3 min read
by Oscar Pinto
Inter Miami CF recently hosted another home game against Orlando City SC at their new stadium in Miami. However, this game felt different, not just for Inter Miami fans, but for the Columbus community as a whole.
After an intense first half, the game paused as the Christopher Columbus High School soccer team was honored on the field for winning the 2026 FHSAA state championship.
The game started with an early goal for Miami after a failed set piece. On the rebound, a cross from Telasco Segovia found Ian Fray, who put it in the back of the net with a simple header.
Inter Miami looked dominant in the first 15 minutes, creating multiple opportunities in the box but struggling to finish. Soon after, they earned a crucial free kick taken by Lionel Messi, but no one could convert the rebound.
After about 20 minutes of intense pressure, Inter Miami doubled their lead, with Messi assisting Segovia to make it 2-0.
Just under 10 minutes later, Messi added a third with a beautiful curled shot to the near post from just outside the 18, making it 3-0.
Inter Miami continued to press, forcing Orlando City into key defensive plays and even goal-line clearances. However, Orlando wasn’t out of the game just yet. Martín Ojeda scored from about 20 yards out, beating multiple defenders and the goalkeeper to make it 3-1 heading into halftime.
Right before the second half began, Inter Miami brought out the Columbus Explorers to recognize them for their state championship. The ceremony highlighted the team’s hard work, discipline and dedication to the program.
“It was a truly special moment, especially considering the presence of so many Columbus families,” said Omar Delgado, Columbus Class of 1998, Director of Educational Technology & Learning Development and Moderator of the school’s award-winning broadcast journalism program, CCNN Live. "Knowing that the owner, the fan base, and the soccer team were all being honored, it was evident that the entire night carried a strong Columbus spirit.”
One name stood out, Cristian Tamargo, who was named Miami-Dade Player of the Year, one of the highest honors an individual player can earn in the county.
“It was awesome to see someone from our school community being honored at such a high level. It really shows all that is possible,” said Columbus sophomore Patricio Zaldivar.
The ceremony was a celebration of the Columbus community and a tribute to success in sports.
That connection runs even deeper. Inter Miami is co-owned by Columbus alumni José Mas (Class of 1989) and Jorge Mas (Class of 1981), making the moment not just a recognition on the field, but a full-circle moment for the Columbus brotherhood at every level of the game.
As the second half began, Orlando City came out with momentum, creating early chances as they pushed to get back into the game.
In the 68th minute, Ojeda scored again with a left-footed strike inside the box, cutting the deficit to one. Just four minutes later, Orlando had a clear chance to equalize when Ojeda found himself one-on-one with Dayne St. Clair, the 2025 Goalkeeper of the Year. However, St. Clair made a crucial save to keep Miami in front.
St. Clair continued to make key saves, but in the 78th minute, Orlando was awarded a penalty. Ojeda converted, completing his hat trick and tying the game at 3-3. In the final moments, Orlando City found one last opportunity on a breakaway and capitalized, securing a 4-3 win over Inter Miami.
While the result didn't go Inter Miami's way, the night was about more than just the score. It was a moment of recognition for Columbus soccer, celebrating a championship team and bringing the community together on a professional stage.
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