Messi Returns as De Paul Makes Debut in Inter Miami's Leagues Cup Opener

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba are set to return from suspension, while Argentine World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul will make his highly anticipated Inter Miami debut as the team kicks off its 2025 Leagues Cup campaign against Mexico's Atlas on Wednesday night.

Key Storylines

• Messi & Alba Back: The duo missed Inter Miami's last match due to suspensions for skipping the MLS All-Star Game.

• De Paul's Debut: The Argentine midfielder, a close friend and national teammate of Messi, finalized his P1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate just in time to feature. The pair lifted the 2022 World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles (2021, 2024) together.

• Tournament Defense: Inter Miami enters as reigning Leagues Cup champions, having won the 2023 edition shortly after Messi’s arrival.

Match Updates (Halftime: Inter Miami 0-0 Atlas)

• Physical Start: Messi was fouled hard by Atlas’ Sergio Hernández in the 6th minute, setting a combative tone.

• Coaches Clash: Inter Miami’s Javier Mascherano and Atlas’ Gonzalo Pineda engaged in a heated sideline confrontation in the 35th minute.

• Close Calls: Luis Suárez rattled the crossbar on the final play of the half, while Messi’s 44th-minute shot was blocked. Inter Miami managed just one shot on target.

• Rios-Novo Shines: Atlas goalkeeper made a crucial save to keep the match level.

Confirmed Lineup Notes

• Messi starts alongside De Paul, who slots into the midfield.

• Alba active, though an offside call nullified a potential chance created by Messi.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — In an exciting Leagues Cup opener on Wednesday, July 30, Lionel Messi was decisive with two assists—including one in stoppage time—securing Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlas.

The Argentine superstar received a pass from longtime teammate Luis Suárez before setting up Marcelo Weigandt for the game-winning goal in the dying minutes.