The quarterfinal clash of the Leagues Cup 2025 on August 20 at Chase Stadium was set up as one of the most anticipated nights in Miami. Inter Miami, riding on a strong tournament run, welcomed Mexican powerhouse Tigres UANL in front of a packed home crowd. Yet, to everyone’s shock, Lionel Messi was absent from the squad list.
Fans had hoped to see the Argentine maestro back in full action after his recent return, but instead, questions filled the air. Why was Messi missing again? Was his injury worse than expected?
The reality was less dramatic but equally concerning: a minor muscle injury setback that forced the club to sideline him as a precaution. With the stakes high—Miami fighting for a place in the semifinals—the pressure shifted onto Messi’s teammates to deliver without their talisman.
This blog explores why Messi sat out, how Inter Miami managed without him, the latest updates on his recovery, and what it means for their season moving forward.
Table of Contents
The Injury Timeline: How Messi Got Sidelined during Miami vs Tigres match
Messi’s absence didn’t happen overnight—it followed a chain of events across early August.
- Initial Injury vs. Necaxa (Aug 3): Messi first picked up a mild muscle strain during Inter Miami’s group-stage win over Necaxa. He lasted just 11 minutes before signaling discomfort and was immediately substituted.
- Return Against LA Galaxy (Aug 16): After weeks of recovery, Messi made a 45-minute substitute appearance against LA Galaxy. He showed flashes of brilliance, but post-game reports revealed he “wasn’t entirely comfortable.”
- Aggravation & Setback: By the following Tuesday, Messi skipped training, with coach Javier Mascherano admitting: “Leo pushed himself against Galaxy, but he still felt discomfort. We didn’t want to risk him with more minutes.”
- Decision for Tigres Game: Ultimately, the staff ruled Messi out of the quarterfinal against Tigres, preferring caution over short-term gain.
This decision fits into the broader challenge of managing Messi’s workload in 2025. With MLS duties, a Leagues Cup title chase, and international commitments with Argentina, Miami cannot afford a long-term absence.
For Messi, the risk of rushing back outweighs the reward. At 38, his fitness management is as important as his creativity on the pitch.
Miami vs Tigres Match Recap: Inter Miami Triumphs Without Messi
If fans feared a Messi-less Miami would crumble, the players had other ideas. Inter Miami secured a dramatic 2-1 victory, booking their place in the semifinals.
Key Match Highlights
- Luis Suarez Steps Up: Suarez converted two penalties (23’, 89’) after Tigres defender Javier Aquino committed handball fouls on both occasions.
- Tigres Fight Back: In the 67th minute, Ángel Correa equalized, sparking tension as Miami struggled to break Tigres down.
- Late Drama: In stoppage time, a Tigres header hit both posts before bouncing out—a near nightmare for Miami fans.
- Injuries & Red Cards:
- Jordi Alba limped off in the 47th minute after his ankle was stepped on.
- Coach Mascherano was shown a red card for protesting stoppage time decisions.
Team Performance
Miami’s resilience stood out:
- Stats Show Dominance: 14 shots, 2.24 xG, and over 60% possession compared to Tigres’ 0.78 xG.
- Rodrigo De Paul provided the creative spark in midfield, filling Messi’s void with composure and vision.
- Luis Suarez proved decisive, now with 3 goals and 2 assists in his last two Leagues Cup games without Messi starting.
This performance highlighted Miami’s growing squad depth, giving hope that they can compete even in Messi’s absence.
Latest Updates and Future Outlook
As of August 21, 2025, the good news for Miami fans is that Messi’s injury is still classified as minor.
- Mascherano’s Stance: “It was a precaution. He could have played, but it wasn’t worth the risk.”
- Expected Return: Messi could feature off the bench in the Leagues Cup semifinal vs. Orlando City (Aug 26/27).
- Upcoming MLS Game: His status for DC United on Aug 23 remains uncertain, though optimism is high.
What It Means for Inter Miami
- Leagues Cup Run: With Suarez, De Paul, and Busquets stepping up, Miami look strong favorites to push for the final.
- MLS Shield Chase: Currently leaders in the Eastern Conference, Miami must balance rotation to keep Messi fit for the decisive months.
- Squad Depth Test: Alba’s ankle injury adds fresh concerns, making Miami’s bench strength more vital than ever.
Conclusion of Miami vs Tigres match and Messi Injury
Lionel Messi’s absence against Tigres was not a cause for panic, but a calculated precaution. Inter Miami proved they could still thrive, edging past Tigres in a dramatic quarterfinal to reach the semifinals.
With Messi expected back soon, the club stands on the edge of a potential historic Leagues Cup run and a serious push in MLS. The key will be managing the balance between ambition and caution with their star player’s fitness.
💡 Now it’s your turn:
Do you think Messi should be risked for the semifinal against Orlando, or saved for MLS and later stages? Share your predictions in the comments!
Highlights of Miami vs Tigres match
- Injury Cause: Mild muscle strain from Aug 3 vs. Necaxa, aggravated after LA Galaxy appearance.
- Match Result: Inter Miami 2-1 Tigres (Suarez 23’ pen, 89’ pen; Correa 67’).
- Standout Performer: Luis Suarez – two goals, leading the attack.
- Setbacks: Jordi Alba injured; Coach Mascherano red-carded.
- Next Games: DC United (Aug 23, MLS) and Orlando City (Aug 26/27, Leagues Cup semifinal).
- Messi Update: Minor issue; expected back for semis.
FAQs on Miami vs Tigres Match
When did Messi get injured?
- Early August vs. Necaxa (played only 11 minutes).
- Aggravated again after LA Galaxy game.
Is Messi’s injury serious?
- No, it’s a minor muscle issue.
- Absence against Tigres was precautionary.
- Expected return by semifinals.
How did Inter Miami win without Messi?
- Luis Suarez scored twice from the penalty spot.
- Strong team stats (14 shots, 2.24 xG).
- New signing Rodrigo De Paul filled Messi’s creative role.
When will Messi play next?
- Likely off the bench in the semifinal vs. Orlando City (Aug 26/27).
- His MLS availability vs. DC United (Aug 23) remains uncertain.
What does this mean for Inter Miami’s season?
- Boosts their confidence in the Leagues Cup.
- Squad depth proving valuable.
- Careful injury management needed for MLS title push.
Has Messi missed other games this season?
- Yes, due to minor knocks and international duties.
- He has played in about 70% of Miami’s matches in 2025.