Inter Miami Advances to Leagues Cup Quarters Without Messi

Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Pumas UNAM in the Leagues Cup group stage without Lionel Messi, who was sidelined due to a minor muscle injury. Luis Suárez stepped up with a penalty goal and two assists, helping the team come from behind and clinch a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite Pumas taking an early lead through Jorge Ruvalcaba, Inter Miami rallied with goals from Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suárez, and Tadeo Allende, finishing the group stage with eight points. Head coach Javier Mascherano adjusted the lineup in Messi's absence, pairing Allende with Suárez upfront and relying on goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. However, the club faced criticism for its vague medical updates on Messi’s injury, with former MLS players expressing concern over the lack of transparency and the potential impact on the star's availability. Inter Miami aims to capitalize on their experience and recent roster additions to advance deeper into the tournament, with hopes of Messi returning for the knockout rounds.