Leagues Cup Roundup: Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami Past Atlas

In their Leagues Cup 2025 Group Stage opener, Inter Miami CF secured a dramatic 2‑1 home win over Atlas FC, powered by two clutch assists from Lionel Messi—one for the opener and another for the stoppage-time winner.

Key Moments

• In the 57th minute, Sergio Busquets delivered a precision pass to Messi inside the box. Messi calmly rolled it across for Telasco Segovia, who bundled the ball into the net to make it 1‑0.
• Atlas equalised in the 80th minute, with Jose Lozano firing in from close range after a scramble in front of goal.
• In the 6th minute of stoppage time, Messi and Luis Suárez combined in a flowing move; Messi’s cut-back found Marcelo Weigandt, who tapped in the winner. Initially ruled offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review.

Other Highlights from the Round:

• Minnesota United 4–1 Queretaro: Early strikes from Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Kelvin Yeboah put the Loons in control, supplemented by goals from Anthony Markanich and Tani Oluwaseyi.
• Necaxa 3–1 Atlanta United: After an early own-goal by Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan, Tomas Badaloni struck twice in the second half to seal the win.
• Pumas UNAM 1–1 Orlando City (4–3 on penalties): Adalberto Carrasquilla scored the equaliser and later the decisive penalty in shootout victory.

Why This Win Matters

1. Messi’s impact remains undeniable
   Messi directly contributed both goals—bringing his Leagues Cup tally to at least 12 goal involvements in 8 matches across competitions in 2025.
2. Strong team start
   Inter Miami’s performance featured debutant Rodrigo De Paul, who played the full match with high passing accuracy and effort, earning praise as a quality reinforcement.
3. Momentum boost
   A last-gasp win sends a clear message to rivals: Miami intend to defend their 2023 Leagues Cup title and are serious contenders again this year.

Team Lineup & Debuts

• Regular starters including Messi, Busquets, Jordi Alba, and newly signed De Paul all featured prominently.
• Benjamin Cremaschi made history as the club’s first academy product to reach 100 first-team appearances.

In Summary

• Inter Miami opened their Leagues Cup campaign with a dramatic 2‑1 victory over Atlas, thanks to Messi’s composure and vision.
• The match highlighted Inter Miami’s strong blend of star power, tactical discipline, and squad depth.
• With momentum on their side and new additions settling in well, the Herons begin their quest to repeat as Leagues Cup champions with confidence.