De Paul Eyes Another Stellar Performance as Inter Miami Prepares to Battle Necaxa

Inter Miami CF return to the pitch on Saturday evening for their second fixture in the 2025 Leagues Cup, facing Liga MX side Necaxa at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

While manager Javier Mascherano's squad didn't deliver a spectacular performance in their tournament opener—a 2–1 victory over Atlas—a crucial late strike from Marcelo Weigandt secured the win and positioned them favorably.

That match also marked Rodrigo De Paul's first appearance for Inter Miami, alongside another impressive display from Lionel Messi.

With the likely requirement to secure victories in all three Phase One encounters to progress as one of the leading four MLS teams, here's how Miami might set up against Necaxa, before turning attention to their Phase One closer versus Pumas UNAM.

Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. Necaxa (4-4-2)

GK: Rocco Rios Novo—The promising keeper has delivered reliable performances while covering for injured Oscar Ustari and Drake Callender.

RB: Marcelo Weigandt—Following his match-winning strike against Atlas, Weigandt aims to continue his vital contribution to Miami's campaign.

CB: Gonzalo Luján—Luján has shouldered considerable defensive duties throughout the backline, finding his most effective form in the center-back position.

CB: Tomás Avilés—Though Avilés occasionally struggles with foul trouble, he has impressed in recent outings as a composed, distribution-focused central defender.

LB: Jordi Alba—Despite heavy workload demands, Jordi Alba continues as an essential fixture for Inter Miami down the left flank.

RM: Tadeo Allende—While his offensive output has diminished recently, Allende stays crucial as a wide option for Mascherano's formation.

CM: Sergio Busquets—The Spanish stalwart is completing his final season under his Designated Player deal.

CM: Rodrigo De Paul—Following a complete 90-minute showing in his first appearance, anticipate similar commitment from the ex-Atlético Madrid midfielder in his second outing.

LM: Telasco Segovia—Segovia found the net first for the Herons in their clash with Atlas.

ST: Lionel Messi—Messi failed to score against Atlas but will undoubtedly seek to expand his 2025 goal count versus Necaxa.

ST: Luis Suárez—Despite recent challenges, Suárez has evolved into more of a creative and movement-based presence in 2025.