FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – Inter Miami clinched a spot in the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup in the most dramatic fashion possible on Sunday night, but the wild celebrations were tempered by a significant injury concern for their superstar captain, Lionel Messi.
The team emerged victorious from a tense penalty shootout after a breathtaking 4-4 draw in regular time, a match that saw a spectacular, end-to-end chase for the lead. However, the joy of advancing was overshadowed as Messi was forced to leave the pitch early in the second half with an apparent injury, leaving fans and the club anxiously awaiting a diagnosis.
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Inter Miami found themselves in a back-and-forth battle, trading goals in a contest that will be remembered as one of the most exciting of the tournament. Before his early departure, Messi had once again been central to his team's attack, scoring a stunning goal and showcasing the world-class talent that has revitalized the club.
The worrying moment came shortly after the 50-minute mark. After a dynamic run, Messi pulled up and was seen signaling to the bench while pointing to his leg. Following a brief on-pitch consultation with the Inter Miami medical staff, the decision was made to substitute the Argentine legend. He walked off the field under his own power but with a noticeable limp, casting a hush over the stadium.
In the post-match press conference, Inter Miami's head coach, Gerardo "Tata" Martino, addressed the situation cautiously. "He felt some discomfort, and we thought it was the most sensible and prudent thing to take him off," Martino told reporters. "We will evaluate him in the coming days. It's too early to say anything specific, but we will not take any risks."
The club later confirmed that Messi's condition is being closely monitored by team doctors, with an official announcement on the nature and severity of the injury expected following a full medical assessment.
The injury scare casts a dark cloud over what has been a fairytale run for Inter Miami since Messi's arrival. His presence has completely transformed the team, leading them on an undefeated streak and turning them into genuine contenders for their first-ever trophy. The club's future success in this tournament and the remainder of the MLS season now appears heavily dependent on the fitness of its most important player.
While the team's incredible journey in the Leagues Cup continues, the fans of Inter Miami will be holding their breath for good news on the health of their captain.
