Lionel Messi Exits Early in Inter Miami Leagues Cup Thriller Due to Hamstring Injury

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup showdown against Club Necaxa took a dramatic turn just minutes in, as global icon Lionel Messi exited the match in the 11th minute with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

🚨 Messi Injury Sends Shockwaves Through Chase Stadium

In a tense opening to Saturday night’s clash, Messi attempted to dribble through Necaxa defenders Raúl Sánchez and Alexis Peña but stumbled awkwardly to the ground. The Argentine captain slammed the turf in visible frustration before walking off the pain briefly—only to later request medical attention. After a short sideline evaluation, Messi made his way straight to the locker room, replaced by Federico Redondo.

🗣️ “Leo felt discomfort in his hamstring,” head coach Javier Mascherano shared post-match. “We’ll know more tomorrow. It didn’t seem serious, but it was enough to take precaution.”

💡 Messi’s Injury History: Cause for Concern?

Messi has struggled with muscle-related injuries throughout his legendary career, including a recent adductor strain that sidelined him from Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers earlier this year. With 18 goals and 9 assists in just 18 MLS games in 2025, the star’s presence has been pivotal to Inter Miami’s dominance.

This latest setback comes amid a grueling 2025 season, where Messi has already logged 30 appearances across the MLS, Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and Club World Cup.

🎯 Inter Miami Survives Without Messi in Penalty Shootout Thriller

Despite the early blow, Inter Miami rallied to defeat Necaxa 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation. The Herons now sit atop the group with five points.

🏆 Key Moments:

• ⚽ Telasco Segovia opened scoring just after Messi’s departure (12’).

• ⚽ Jordi Alba headed in a stunning equalizer in stoppage time (90’+2).

• 🧤 Rocco Ríos Novo made a game-changing save during the shootout.

• ✅ Luis Suárez nailed the winning penalty for a heroic finish.

  
  

⚔️ What’s Next for Inter Miami?

With the group stage finale against Pumas UNAM set for August 6 (7:30 PM ET), all eyes will be on Messi’s recovery. Should the Herons advance, they’ll move into the Leagues Cup quarterfinals on August 19 or 20.

🔜 Upcoming Matches:

• 🆚 Aug. 6 — Pumas UNAM (Leagues Cup)

• 🆚 Aug. 10 — Orlando City (MLS)

• 🆚 Aug. 16 — LA Galaxy (MLS)

• 🆚 Aug. 23 — D.C. United (MLS)

📈 Spotlight Alert Sports Take

Messi’s health remains a major storyline for Inter Miami and MLS fans around the world. While the Herons proved they could survive without their star man—thanks to standouts like De Paul, Alba, and Suárez—their championship hopes hinge on Messi’s availability.

Stay locked into Spotlight Alert Sports for live match updates, injury reports, and Messi watch coverage as the 2025 Leagues Cup unfolds.

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