Lionel Messi Suffers Injury In Inter Miami’s League Cup Win
Argentina and Inter Miami talisman, Lionel Messi, was forced off the pitch with an injury just 11 minutes into his side’s Leagues Cup clash against Mexican outfit Necaxa on Saturday, raising concerns over his fitness as the tournament progresses.
The 38-year-old forward, who had appeared sharp in previous outings, seemed to pick up a knock around his upper right leg or groin after an early burst into the opponent’s half. He initially received treatment on the sidelines but opted to walk off under his own steam, heading straight into the locker room amid hushed silence at Fort Lauderdale’s Chase Stadium.
Inter Miami, however, weathered the storm and went on to secure a 5-4 win on penalties after the contest ended 2-2 in regulation time.
Speaking after the match, coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that a proper assessment of Messi’s condition would be carried out on Sunday.
“Well, he felt a discomfort, and we will not be able to know until tomorrow how severe the injury is,” Mascherano said.
“There’s probably something there. Maybe not as important, because he was really not in pain. But he did feel a pull.”
The injury moment came shortly after Messi took on the Necaxa defence and collided with Alexis Peña, falling awkwardly and visibly frustrated as he hit the turf. Not long after, he was spotted seated alone near the halfway line before lying flat, prompting immediate medical attention. He was replaced by Federico Redondo.
Despite being reduced to ten men following Maximiliano Falcon’s red card in the 17th minute, Inter Miami opened the scoring through Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia in the 12th.
Necaxa responded with goals from Tomas Badaloni and substitute Ricardo Monreal in the 33rd and 81st minutes respectively, while Jordi Alba salvaged the draw for Miami with a late strike in stoppage time.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Rodrigo De Paul, Ben Cremaschi, Jordi Alba, Redondo and Luis Suarez converted for the Herons, with Suarez burying the decider. Badaloni missed the crucial spot-kick for Necaxa.
Messi, who has been instrumental in Miami’s campaign with 18 goals and nine assists in as many MLS matches this season, had also provided both assists in their 2-1 victory over Atlas on Wednesday.
Miami are expected to face Pumas in their final group stage fixture on Wednesday, but it remains unclear whether their captain will feature.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
