Lionel Messi Ruled Out Of Inter Miami Orlando City MLS Match

Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami's upcoming Major League Soccer match against Florida rivals Orlando City due to a minor muscle injury in his upper right leg sustained during the Leagues Cup match against Necaxa. Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Messi's absence, emphasizing caution to avoid risking further injury, though he expects Messi to return soon. Despite Messi's injury, Inter Miami has maintained strong form, recently securing a place in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals and relying on other key players like Rodrigo De Paul to lead their attack. The Florida Derby match presents an opportunity for Miami to avenge a heavy earlier defeat to Orlando City this season. Inter Miami currently sits fifth in the MLS Eastern Conference, narrowly ahead of Orlando City, with crucial matches ahead including hosting LA Galaxy and a Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres UANL. Messi, who leads the MLS scoring race, remains a critical figure for Miami's offensive strength, but his recovery timeline remains uncertain.