In a significant blow for Inter Miami, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi will not be participating in their Leagues Cup knockout match against the Columbus Crew on Tuesday. Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerardo Martino, confirmed the decision on Monday, revealing that Messi is still sidelined with a right ankle injury sustained during Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final last month.
Messi, who has not yet resumed training with his Miami teammates and remains in a walking boot, was a key figure in Inter Miami’s triumph in last year’s Leagues Cup. His absence is a considerable setback for the defending champions as they face off against the reigning MLS champions.
The Leagues Cup, featuring teams from both Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX, continues its knockout stages with several key fixtures. On Tuesday, other significant matches include Philadelphia Union versus FC Cincinnati, Cruz Azul against Mazatlan, Tigres UANL taking on New York City FC, Toluca at Colorado Rapids, Club America at St. Louis CITY SC, and San Jose Earthquakes facing Los Angeles FC.
As the round of 16 unfolds, teams are vying for a place in the quarter-finals, which will be determined by Friday and Saturday’s matches.
