Soccer star Messi gets sidelined by injury during Miami's triumphant Leagues Cup match.
In a disappointing turn of events, Lionel Messi, the 38-year-old Argentine superstar forward for Inter Miami, was forced to leave a Leagues Cup match against Necaxa on August 2, 2025, due to an injury. The incident occurred in the opening minutes of the game, specifically the 11th minute, after Messi was crowded off the ball while dribbling near Necaxa's defense.
Moments later, Messi went to the ground in a seated position near midfield, signaling discomfort. He was subsequently substituted early and made his way to the locker room for treatment. The exact details and severity of the injury will not be known until Sunday.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano stated that Messi "felt a discomfort in his hamstring," and the extent of the injury would be clearer after further checks. This concern is not unfounded, as Messi had earlier this year experienced issues with his adductor and thigh muscles, causing him to miss some Argentina World Cup qualifiers.
Despite Messi's early departure, Inter Miami managed to secure a victory, winning the match against Necaxa 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regular play. The team's resilience was on full display, with Federico Redondo being brought in to replace Messi and making a significant contribution.
Before this injury, Messi had been in excellent form for Inter Miami, scoring 18 goals and assisting on 9 others in 18 MLS appearances this season. He had also led Inter Miami to the inaugural Leagues Cup crown in 2023.
The team will conclude group stage play in the Leagues Cup on Wednesday against Pumas. Further updates on Messi’s condition are pending, and all eyes will be on the Inter Miami medical staff as they assess the extent of the injury.
Sources: - mlssoccer.com - espn.com - Various video and social media reports confirm the early substitution after injury signs.
- The world of sports, particularly football and American football, will be closely watching the ongoing situation with Lionel Messi, as he faces an injury that occurred during a Leagues Cup match against Necaxa.
- In the wake of Messi's injury, who were initially disappointed by his early departure, saw Inter Miami demonstrate remarkable resilience in securing a victory against Necaxa.
- As the Pumas prepare for their upcoming encounter with Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup, the focus will shift to Messi's recovery, with all eyes on the Inter Miami medical staff for further updates on the extent of the injury.
- Given Messi's significant contributions to Inter Miami's success, including leading them to the inaugural Leagues Cup crown in 2023, news of his injury has sparked concern within the team and the sports-analysis community, eagerly awaiting more information.
