Messi Forced Off Field After First-Half Injury Blow Rocks Inter Miami's Leagues Cup Clash with Necaxa

Lionel Messi's appearance for Inter Miami CF lasted under 10 minutes on Saturday evening, as he was forced to exit their Leagues Cup fixture against Liga MX side Necaxa during the opening period.

The 38-year-old Miami forward began the game in the starting lineup. However, he suffered a collision with two Necaxa defenders near the penalty box following an attacking run in the seventh minute, appearing uncomfortable as he got back on his feet.

Messi persisted for a few more minutes, but ultimately required substitution after receiving medical attention from Miami's staff on the field. The Argentine officially departed the contest in the 11th minute, with defensive midfielder Federico Redondo entering as his substitute.

The atmosphere at Miami's Chase Stadium brightened quickly for supporters, as Telasco Segovia found the net for the opener just under two minutes following Messi's departure. During the first half's latter stages, Miami were reduced to 10 players following a direct red card shown to center back Maxi Falcón, before Necaxa leveled the score in the 33rd minute.

An immediate update regarding Messi's condition was not provided.

Messi's minutes and fitness have become a significant discussion point for Miami throughout this campaign. Manager Javier Mascherano has utilized him for more than 80 minutes on 24 occasions in 2025, and Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas attributed exhaustion as the cause for the Argentine's controversial absence from the MLS All-Star Game, resulting in a one-game ban.

Apart from skipping the All-Star Game and the subsequent MLS fixture versus FC Cincinnati, Messi has maintained good availability this season. However, an injury wouldn't be unprecedented following a period of extensive playing time, as he was sidelined for a considerable stretch after the 2024 Copa América last campaign.

Miami are guaranteed at least one additional Leagues Cup fixture in 2025 when they meet Pumas UNAM on Wednesday, seeking to progress from Phase One among the top four MLS clubs and secure quarterfinal qualification.