Messi Out for Inter Miami's Leagues Cup Match

Lionel Messi has been ruled out for Inter Miami's Leagues Cup knockout match against the Columbus Crew on Tuesday due to a right ankle injury sustained during Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. Messi has not trained with his team since his injury. The Leagues Cup features clubs from MLS and Liga MX, with eight matches scheduled to determine the quarter-final pairings. Despite Messi's absence, Inter Miami, the defending champions, are motivated to defend their title against Columbus, last year's MLS champions. The game, however, lacks the excitement of previous matches, with ticket prices significantly lower and less media coverage. Miami narrowly advanced to this round with a 4-3 win over Toronto FC, while Columbus recently defeated Sporting Kansas City 4-0.