MLS dominates Leagues Cup, Messi set for another trophy
For the second consecutive year, MLS clubs have eliminated all Mexican teams to secure all four semifinal spots in the Leagues Cup. Messi’s Inter Miami is considered the top contender for the title.
Messi to return and lift another trophy?
Coach Javier Mascherano confirmed he made a risky decision with Messi and Inter Miami’s stars for one clear reason: to focus entirely on winning the Leagues Cup.
Messi was given rest to recover from an adductor injury and is expected to return in time to chase the trophy.
The Argentine legend has now missed two straight games since playing 45 minutes in the second half of Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over LA Galaxy on August 17, when he scored a stunning goal and provided an assist for Luis Suárez.
Messi also sat out the 2-1 quarterfinal win over Tigres UANL on August 21 and the 1-1 MLS draw away at DC United on August 24.
“We spoke with Messi about his condition. We don’t want to take risks, we don’t want him to go through recovery all over again and have it prolonged. That’s why we chose the safe option of not playing him,” Mascherano said after the DC United match.
The 38-year-old star has struggled with lingering discomfort in his adductor, while Jordi Alba is also sidelined. Key teammates such as Suárez, Busquets, and De Paul have been heavily relied upon.
“We’ve played 41 matches already, and I want to give opportunities to other players. We need the whole squad. It was a clear decision for us, and in the end, I think it was the right one when we brought the key players on. This creates balance and helps reduce risks for our core players,” Mascherano added.
Messi has already scored 25 goals and provided 11 assists in 32 matches across all competitions this season for Inter Miami.
The club also remains in contention for the Supporters’ Shield, sitting eight points behind league leaders Philadelphia Union with three games in hand. Rivals San Diego FC slipped with a 0-0 draw against Portland Timbers, leaving Inter Miami with control over their own fate.
Inter Miami now prepare for the Leagues Cup semifinal against fierce rivals Orlando City on August 28 at 7:30 PM (Vietnam time). The other semifinal, LA Galaxy vs. Seattle Sounders, takes place later the same day. The final is scheduled for August 31.
The big question: will Messi be fit in time? Fans received good news, as he is expected to return against Orlando City after a week of rest and individual training.
“If nothing unusual happens, Messi will rejoin full training early this week and play in the do-or-die semifinal against Orlando City, who have beaten Inter Miami twice in MLS this season (3-0 and 4-1). It’s time for Messi to take revenge and aim for the club’s third-ever title — and the 47th trophy of his career,” reported journalist Jose Armando from Deporte Total USA.