BREAKING: Inter Miami Battles Necaxa Without Messi in Fiery Leagues Cup 2025 Showdown
In a thrilling opening to the Leagues Cup 2025, Inter Miami CF faced off against Mexico’s Necaxa today in a hotly anticipated group stage clash. But all eyes weren’t just on the pitch — they were scanning the sidelines. Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s superstar captain, was noticeably absent due to injury, sending a wave of concern across the soccer world.
Held under the lights in Miami, the match ended in a nail-biting draw, but the story was far bigger than the scoreline. This was a statement from Inter Miami’s squad — they can compete even without Messi. Meanwhile, Necaxa proved they’re no underdog, executing a smart game plan that nearly stunned the hosts.
Where Was Lionel Messi? Latest on His Injury Status
Fans hoping to see Messi add another chapter to his Miami saga were left disappointed. The Argentine icon was ruled out due to precautionary measures stemming from a mild muscle discomfort, the club confirmed just hours before kickoff.
While early reports don’t suggest a long-term injury, sources close to the club say Messi is being evaluated day-to-day. With Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup schedule heating up, coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino said post-match:
“We’re not taking chances with Leo. It’s a long season ahead, and we need him fully fit.”
This development puts Messi’s status for the next Leagues Cup fixture into serious doubt, adding tension and unpredictability to Miami’s campaign.
Inter Miami vs. Necaxa: How the Match Unfolded
Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami came out with intent. Luis Suárez led the line aggressively, linking up well with Diego Gómez and Robert Taylor. However, Necaxa‘s young midfield duo — José Paradela and Vicente Poggi — controlled large portions of the game, frustrating Miami’s buildup play.
The breakthrough came in the 34th minute, when Necaxa’s Édgar Méndez capitalized on a defensive lapse to curl in a spectacular goal from 25 yards out.
But Inter Miami struck back in the second half, with Suárez converting a penalty earned by Gómez after a clumsy challenge from Necaxa’s backline. The match ended 1-1, though both sides had chances to steal it late.
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What This Means for the Leagues Cup 2025
This result leaves Group B wide open. Both Inter Miami and Necaxa take one point each, but questions loom large:
- Will Messi be available for Miami’s second match?
- Can Necaxa ride this performance to a surprise knockout stage berth?
- Will Inter Miami’s supporting cast step up if Messi misses more time?
The Leagues Cup 2025 is still young, but this result has already injected drama and intrigue. With Miami considered tournament favorites, their vulnerability without Messi is now a key narrative.
Where to Watch Inter Miami vs. Necaxa Highlights
Missed the live action? Fans can catch highlights and analysis via:
- Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass — official streaming partner
- ESPN Soccer — post-match coverage, player ratings, and expert commentary
Upcoming matches in the Inter Miami schedule will also be shown on Univision, TUDN, and streamed internationally via select regional partners.
Key Takeaways from Inter Miami – Necaxa
- Final Score: Inter Miami 1 – 1 Necaxa
- Messi Injury: Out due to muscle discomfort; return uncertain
- Man of the Match: Édgar Méndez (Necaxa)
- Possession: Inter Miami (56%) – Necaxa (44%)
- Next Fixture: Inter Miami vs. Tigres (Aug 7, 2025)
What’s Next for Inter Miami CF and Messi?
With the Inter Miami vs. Necaxa draw now in the books, all attention turns to Messi’s recovery timeline. Sources indicate he may be rested for another match to avoid aggravation ahead of the MLS playoff push later this year.
Necaxa, meanwhile, leaves with renewed confidence. Coach Eduardo Fentanes praised his squad, stating:
“To come here and take a point from Inter Miami — with or without Messi — shows our growth. We’re not done yet.”
For fans, the stakes rise with each passing game. Whether you’re tracking Messi, watching Inter de Miami climb the Leagues Cup bracket, or supporting Necaxa’s Cinderella run, this summer is shaping up to be unforgettable.
Author Bio
Written by Carlos M. Alvarez
Carlos is a seasoned sports journalist covering North American and Latin American football for over a decade. Based in Miami, he brings in-depth coverage of MLS, Liga MX, and international tournaments. Follow him for real-time updates, analysis, and on-the-ground match insights.
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