Inter Miami kicked off their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Atlas. Lionel Messi once again proved his leadership role by assisting both goals, including the decisive pass in stoppage time.
Messi’s 2 Assists Against Atlas:
🎯 Tense Match and Last-Minute Drama
Inter Miami faced Atlas in a cautious start to their Leagues Cup 2025 opener, but both sides still created notable chances in the first half. Luis Suárez came close to scoring with a shot that struck the crossbar, while goalkeeper Rios made several outstanding saves to keep a clean sheet for the home team.
Messi’s stoppage-time assist secured a breathtaking victory for Inter Miami.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute when Busquets delivered a pinpoint pass to Messi, who quickly made a one-touch assist for Telasco Segovia to score the opener.
However, Atlas refused to go down easily. In the 80th minute, Rivaldo Lozano capitalized on a chaotic play in the box to equalize 1-1, setting up a tense final stretch.
Once again, Messi changed the course of the match. In the 90+6 minute, after a slick one-two with Suárez, he delivered a world-class assist to Marcelo Weigandt, who slotted home the winner. VAR confirmed the goal, sealing a dramatic win for the hosts.
🔥 Impressive Debut for De Paul – But Messi Remains the Guiding Light
Rodrigo De Paul was only cleared to play shortly before kickoff but immediately secured a starting spot. Making his debut for Inter Miami, the Argentine midfielder played with confidence, linking up well with Busquets to control the midfield — a quality addition to the club’s long-term ambitions.
Messi and Rodrigo De Paul shine in Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opener.
Coach Javier Mascherano praised De Paul’s debut, highlighting both his technical abilities and his on-field presence. According to Mascherano, De Paul’s energy and commanding presence made a key difference for Inter Miami.
“It’s unbelievable that he hadn’t played in a month, yet performed so impressively. We need players like De Paul — not just skillful, but inspiring through their presence. He brings a very special energy,” said Mascherano.
Even so, all eyes remained on Lionel Messi. With two sharp assists, the 38-year-old superstar once again proved his irreplaceable leadership. With the win over Atlas, Inter Miami secured all 3 points and currently sits 3rd in Group A of the 2025 Leagues Cup.
So far this season, Lionel Messi has played 19 matches for Inter Miami, scoring 18 goals and providing 12 assists. These impressive numbers not only reflect his consistent form but also underline his immense influence on the team’s play.