Inter Miami secured a dramatic penalty shootout win (5-4) over Necaxa in the Leagues Cup, but the night was overshadowed by an early injury to Lionel Messi. The team’s emotional performance showed they weren’t just playing to win—they were playing for their captain.
Messi Injured Just 11 Minutes Into the Match
The worst-case scenario became reality for Inter Miami fans when Lionel Messi was forced to leave the field in the 11th minute of the match. After a sprint, Messi felt a sharp pain in his right leg. Despite trying to continue, it was clear he couldn’t stay on.
The moment was surreal—Chase Stadium fell silent. No chants. No cheers. Just concern. This was supposed to be another iconic Messi night, especially after his heroic assist in the previous game against Atlas, but fate had other plans.
A Game Full of Drama and Tension
Even before Messi’s injury, this matchup against Necaxa, led by Fernando Gago, promised to be intense. And it delivered.
- Telasco Segovia gave Inter Miami a brief lead in the 12th minute.
- But just five minutes later, Maximiliano Falcón was sent off, leaving Miami with 10 men.
- Necaxa responded aggressively. Tomás Badaloni equalized, and later, Ricardo Monreal put the Mexican side ahead 2-1.
- The game seemed to be slipping away from Miami.
Lionel Messi was subbed off after picking up an injury in the 11th minute vs. Necaxa. pic.twitter.com/yA9yuTHReE
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 2, 2025
Jordi Alba’s Late Goal Saved Miami’s Campaign
Just when it looked like Miami would suffer defeat without Messi, veteran defender Jordi Alba came to the rescue. In stoppage time (92nd minute), Alba scored a dramatic equalizer that sent the game to penalties.
It was a goal full of emotion—Alba ran toward the bench, pointing to the sky and then to the stands, in a gesture clearly dedicated to his injured friend and teammate, Lionel Messi.
Penalty Shootout: A Team United for Their Captain
With Messi off the field and down a man, Miami could have easily folded. But instead, they came together.
Inter Miami won the shootout 5-4, with players visibly emotional after the final kick. Several members of the team, including Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets, pointed toward the stands and lifted their arms—clearly a tribute to Messi.
In the post-match interview, head coach Gerardo Martino said, “Tonight’s win is for Leo. We knew he wanted to be out there with us, and we fought to honor him.”
➕2️⃣ puntos. Vamos Miami💗🖤 pic.twitter.com/mSDKoUXVZZ
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 3, 2025
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Inter Miami now looks ahead to another Leagues Cup clash—this time against Liga MX side Pumas. With confidence high after the Necaxa win, the team is hopeful. But the big question remains: Will Lionel Messi be available?
As of now, no official update has been released regarding Messi’s injury status. The club is expected to monitor him closely in the coming days.
Inter Miami’s victory over Necaxa was more than just a win—it was a statement of unity, grit, and dedication. Losing Messi early could have broken their spirit. Instead, they rallied and won it for him.
As fans wait for news about Messi’s condition, one thing is clear: This Inter Miami squad is built not just on talent, but on brotherhood.
Stay tuned to Profaves for more updates on Lionel Messi’s injury, Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign, and all things football.
