The highly anticipated Leagues Cup match between Inter Miami CF and Liga MX’s Necaxa took an unforeseen turn when superstar Lionel Messi exited the game less than ten minutes into the first half due to an apparent injury. This startling development immediately cast a shadow over Inter Miami’s campaign, leaving fans and commentators alike wondering about the severity of the incident and its potential long-term implications for the team.
The unfortunate event unfolded after an awkward collision, which left Messi visibly uncomfortable and receiving treatment on the pitch. Despite attempts to continue, it became clear that the Argentine maestro could no longer participate, leading to his official substitution in the 11th minute. Defensive midfielder Federico Redondo was brought on as his replacement, marking a pivotal moment that reshaped the dynamic of the crucial Leagues Cup encounter.
Remarkably, the atmosphere at Chase Stadium quickly shifted from concern to celebration. Less than two minutes after Lionel Messi’s injury forced his departure, Telasco Segovia netted the opening goal for Inter Miami, providing a much-needed lift to the team and its supporters. This unexpected breakthrough demonstrated Miami’s resilience even in the absence of their talisman, suggesting a deeper squad capability.
However, the dramatic first half was far from over. Inter Miami soon found themselves reduced to ten men after center back Maxi Falcón received a straight red card, further complicating their task against Necaxa. The numerical disadvantage proved costly, as Necaxa capitalized on the opportunity, tying the match in the 33rd minute. This chaotic sequence underscored the unpredictable nature of club soccer and the high stakes of the tournament.
Concerns surrounding Lionel Messi’s durability have been a recurring theme throughout this season. Head coach Javier Mascherano has heavily relied on his captain, fielding him for over 80 minutes in 24 matches during 2025. This intensive workload has naturally led to discussions about player fatigue and its potential impact on performance and injury susceptibility in Major League Soccer.
Beyond the current Lionel Messi injury scare, his past availability has also drawn attention. Co-owner Jorge Mas previously cited fatigue as the reason for Messi controversially skipping the All-Star Game, an absence that resulted in a one-match suspension. While generally durable, his career has seen periods of extended sideline time, particularly after demanding international tournaments like the 2024 Copa América.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is set to play at least one more Leagues Cup fixture in 2025, a critical match against Pumas UNAM on Wednesday. Their objective remains clear: to advance out of Phase One as one of the top four teams and secure a spot in the quarterfinals. The team’s ability to perform under pressure, particularly without Messi, will be under intense scrutiny.
This latest incident involving Lionel Messi highlights the fragility of even the most decorated athletes and the profound impact a key player’s absence can have on a team’s trajectory. As the football news cycle continues to buzz, fans eagerly await updates on Messi’s condition and how Inter Miami will navigate the remainder of their challenging Leagues Cup schedule. The road ahead demands collective effort and strategic adjustments to maintain their competitive edge.
