⚽ Match Details
- Date: January 31, 2026
- Venue: Atanasio Girardot Stadium, Medellín
- Teams: Inter Miami CF vs Atlético Nacional
- Type: Friendly match
- Capacity: ~40,000
Inter Miami CF, the MLS club that has captured global attention since signing Lionel Messi, will travel to Colombia on January 31, 2026, to face Atlético Nacional at Medellín's iconic Atanasio Girardot stadium. This high-profile friendly has already generated significant buzz—and controversy over ticket prices.
For expats and tourists planning to be in Medellín during this time, here's everything you need to know about attending (or avoiding) this event.
Why This Match Matters
This isn't just any friendly. Inter Miami's roster includes some of the biggest names in world football, and Colombian fans are eager to see them play against one of the country's most successful clubs.
Atlético Nacional is Medellín's most decorated team, with 17 league titles and two Copa Libertadores championships. The club has a passionate fanbase and a reputation for creating an electric atmosphere at the Atanasio Girardot.
The match represents a rare opportunity to see world-class talent in Medellín without traveling to a World Cup or Copa América.
Ticket Prices (Controversy Alert)
Ticket prices have already drawn criticism from Colombian fans, with many calling them unaffordable for local supporters:
| Section | Price (COP) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Norte/Sur (General) | 400,000 | ~$100 |
| Lateral (Sides) | 600,000-800,000 | ~$150-200 |
| Preferencial (Premium) | 1,200,000+ | ~$300+ |
For context, Colombia's minimum wage is approximately 1.3 million COP per month (~$325 USD). A general admission ticket costs nearly a third of a monthly minimum wage—pricing many local fans out of the event.
⚠️ Ticket Warning
Given the high demand and prices, be extremely cautious about purchasing tickets from unofficial sources. Ticket scams are common for high-profile events. Only buy from official channels or verified resellers.
Planning Your Visit
✅ If You're Attending
Book accommodation early: Hotels near the stadium and in El Poblado will fill up quickly. Book now if you haven't already.
Arrange transportation in advance: Uber/DiDi will be in high demand. Consider booking a private driver or using the Metro (Estadio station is closest).
Arrive early: Security lines for high-profile international matches can be lengthy. Plan to arrive 2+ hours before kickoff.
Keep valuables minimal: Large crowds attract pickpockets. Leave unnecessary valuables at your hotel.
Don't wear Inter Miami gear in Nacional sections: Colombian fútbol culture is passionate. Wearing visiting team colors in home supporter sections is not advisable.
If You're NOT Attending
If you're in Medellín but not going to the match, expect the following:
Traffic chaos: The area around the Atanasio Girardot will be heavily congested before and after the match. Avoid the stadium area (around Estadio Metro station and Carrera 70) from late afternoon until late evening.
Packed bars: Sports bars and restaurants with TVs will be crowded with fans watching the match. Make reservations if you want to eat out that evening.
Festive atmosphere: Win or lose, expect celebrations (or commiserations) in popular nightlife areas like Parque Lleras and La 70 after the match.
📍 Getting to Atanasio Girardot Stadium
Metro: Estadio station (Line A) is directly adjacent to the stadium complex. This is the easiest option.
Uber/DiDi: Drop-off will be restricted near the stadium. Expect to walk 10-15 minutes from where cars can access.
Address: Carrera 74 #48-139, Medellín
Recent Context: Stadium Safety
It's worth noting that the Atanasio Girardot was the site of violence at the Copa BetPlay final just weeks before this match (December 17, 2025), when clashes between DIM and Nacional fans injured 59 people.
However, that was a high-stakes rivalry match between Medellín's two biggest clubs. An international friendly against a foreign team typically carries far less tension. Security presence will likely be heightened given the recent incident and the international attention this match will receive.
The Bottom Line
If you're a football fan with the budget for tickets, this is a rare opportunity to see world-class players in Medellín's most famous stadium. The atmosphere will be electric, and it's an experience you won't forget.
If you're not attending, plan your evening around the match—either embrace the football atmosphere at a local bar, or escape to a quieter part of the city until it's over.
Either way, January 31, 2026, will be one of the biggest sporting events Medellín has hosted in years. Plan accordingly.
Last updated: December 18, 2025. Ticket prices subject to change. Check official sources for the most current information.