Quick Read
- Inter Miami defeated Necaxa 5-4 in penalties after a 2-2 draw in the Leagues Cup.
- Lionel Messi suffered a suspected muscle injury just 11 minutes into the game.
- Jordi Alba scored a stoppage-time equalizer to force the match into penalties.
- Ricardo Monreal’s ‘SIUUU’ celebration was mocked by MLS after Necaxa’s loss.
Inter Miami emerged victorious in a pulsating Leagues Cup encounter against Mexico’s Club Necaxa on August 2, 2025. The match, held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ended in a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout win for Miami after a 2-2 draw in regulation time. However, the night wasn’t without its challenges, as Lionel Messi suffered an early injury, casting a shadow over the team’s celebrations.
Messi’s Early Exit Sparks Concern
The match took an unexpected turn within the first 11 minutes when Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s star forward, was forced off the pitch due to a suspected muscle injury. Messi, who has been instrumental for the team with 24 goals and 10 assists this season, collided with Necaxa defender Alexis Peña while attempting a break into the box. The Argentine was seen clutching his right thigh and eventually signaled for medical attention before being substituted by Federico Redondo.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the situation in the post-match press conference, stating, “He felt a discomfort, and we will not be able to know until tomorrow how severe the injury is. There’s probably something there, maybe not as important, because he was really not in pain. But he did feel a pull.” Fans and analysts alike are anxiously awaiting updates, as Messi’s presence is pivotal for Miami’s ongoing campaign.
Late Drama and Penalty Shootout Heroics
Despite the setback of losing Messi, Inter Miami displayed resilience throughout the match. The game opened with a goal from Miami’s Leonardo Campana, giving the home side an early lead. Necaxa responded swiftly through Tomas Badaloni, leveling the score at 1-1.
The second half saw heightened intensity, with Necaxa’s Ricardo Monreal putting his team ahead 2-1 in the 81st minute. Monreal celebrated with a Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired ‘SIUUU’ pose, much to the dismay of the Miami faithful. However, Jordi Alba, stepping up in Messi’s absence, delivered a stunning stoppage-time equalizer in the 92nd minute, forcing the game into penalties.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Inter Miami showcased nerves of steel, converting all five of their spot-kicks. Necaxa’s Tomas Badaloni, who had earlier scored in regulation time, missed his crucial attempt, sealing Miami’s 5-4 victory. Ricardo Monreal, though successful with his penalty, faced ridicule online as MLS’ official social media account posted a cheeky “Take the L” message, mocking his earlier celebration.
A Night of Mixed Emotions for Miami
While the victory propelled Inter Miami into the next round of the Leagues Cup, the team’s joy was tempered by Messi’s injury. The Argentine has been a transformative figure for the club since his arrival, and his potential absence raises questions about Miami’s ability to maintain their momentum.
Additionally, Jordi Alba’s heroic performance garnered widespread praise. The Spanish defender, a former Barcelona teammate of Messi, demonstrated his ability to step up in crucial moments, further solidifying his importance to the squad.
What Lies Ahead
Inter Miami’s journey in the Leagues Cup continues, but the team’s immediate focus will undoubtedly be on Messi’s recovery. As fans await updates on his condition, the club will need to regroup and prepare for their next challenge without their talismanic forward, if necessary.
This match also highlighted the growing rivalry between MLS and Liga MX clubs, with encounters like these showcasing the competitive spirit and drama that fans have come to expect from the Leagues Cup.
While Inter Miami celebrates this hard-fought victory, the uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s health remains a pressing concern for the team and its supporters.