In the eighth minute of play, Lionel Messi of Inter Miami was hurt after he was challenged by two defenders close to the penalty area.
Miami, Florida – Lionel Messi, the cornerstone of Inter Miami’s resurgence in Major League Soccer and international competitions, gave fans and teammates a huge scare after going down with an apparent injury in the eighth minute of their latest fixture. The incident, which took place near the penalty area, has raised doubts over his availability for the upcoming Leagues Cup showdown against Mexican club Pumas UNAM.
What Happened?
The match had barely begun when Messi was tackled by two defenders while attempting a run into the box.Clinging to his left ankle, Messi collapsed to the ground as he was positioned between the defenders.Play was halted immediately, and the 37-year-old Argentine was examined on the pitch by Inter Miami’s medical team before being helped off, clearly in discomfort.
Fans at the DRV PNK Stadium watched in stunned silence, with chants of “Messi! Messi!”ringing out while the seven-time winner of the Ballon d’Or was removed to the sidelines.
Initial Medical Reports
Early reports suggest that lionel Messi may have suffered a mild sprain or bruising to his ankle, though the club has not officially confirmed the severity of the injury.
Gerardo “Tata” Martino, the head coach of Inter Miami, spoke to the media after the game in a cautiously upbeat manner:
“We’ll wait for the scans, but it doesn’t look like a fracture. Messi was in pain, yes, but he was walking under his own power. That’s a good sign.”
Messi did not return to the bench for the rest of the game and was spotted with an ice pack strapped to his ankle after the game.
What’s at Stake: Leagues Cup vs Pumas UNAM
Inter Miami is set to face Pumas UNAM in the round of 16 of the 2025 Leagues Cup—a tournament that has grown in significance, featuring clubs from both MLS and Liga MX.
Messi’s presence could be a decisive factor, given his form this season. He has scored 14 goals and provided 9 assists in just 18 matches, becoming the team’s talisman since joining in 2023.
The attacking lineup of Inter Miami might need to be reorganized without him. Players like Luis Suárez, Robert Taylor, and Diego Gómez may have to shoulder additional responsibility if Messi is ruled out, even temporarily.
Reactions from the Football World
The incident has sparked widespread concern and commentary:
David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, was seen visibly distressed in the stands.
“Wishing Leo a speedy recovery,” tweeted Jorge Mas, another club co-owner.The spirit he brings to this team is unmatched.”
Former teammate Neymar posted a supportive message on Instagram: “Stay strong hermano
.”
Football fans around the world trended the hashtag #PrayForMessi within an hour of the injury.
Messi’s Recent Workload a Concern?
While Messi has been in scintillating form, some experts suggest that his workload could be catching up. At 37, playing both domestic league matches and cross-border tournaments adds significant physical strain. Since June, Messi has played 11 games in just 6 weeks, including international friendlies.
Sports scientist Dr. Raul Hernández, speaking to ESPN, remarked:
“Even the best-trained athletes reach a point where fatigue increases injury risk. Messi’s minutes need better management if Inter Miami want to keep him healthy for the playoffs.”
What Happens Next?
The club has promised a full medical update within 24–48 hours. Should Messi miss the Pumas UNAM game, it would be his first absence from a Leagues Cup tie since joining the club.
Possible scenarios:
Best case: Minor injury, Messi rested as precaution, returns within a week.
Mid-case: Grade 1 sprain, out for 1–2 weeks.
Worst case: Ligament damage, out for multiple weeks—though early signs rule out a serious fracture.
Tactical Outlook Without Messi
Tata Martino might use a 4-2-3-1 with Suárez as the only striker and Taylor or Cremaschi as a playmaker if Messi is out. Inter Miami’s midfield, especially Sergio Busquets, will need to provide extra control to avoid giving Pumas a physical edge.
Pumas, known for their pressing and pace, will likely try to capitalize on Messi’s absence by dominating the midfield early.
Final Thoughts
Messi’s injury is a reminder of how fragile a team’s fate can be when it relies so heavily on a single player—even one as great as Lionel Messi. Inter Miami fans will be hoping the setback is minor and that their star returns to dazzle once more in the Leagues Cup.
For now, all eyes are on the medical report and Messi’s recovery timeline. Whether or not he takes the field against Pumas UNAM, his impact on Inter Miami’s confidence and momentum is already undeniable.
Source: Hindustan Times – Messi Injury: Will Inter Miami Star Miss Leagues Cup Game Against Pumas UNAM
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