Inter Miami Faces Elimination Risk in Leagues Cup Without Messi

Inter Miami is in a precarious position after suffering a 2-1 defeat to CF Monterrey in the group stage of the 2026 Leagues Cup. The team is facing potential elimination as they prepare for their final match without star captain Lionel Messi, who is currently in Argentina due to the passing of his father.

The Herons began their tournament with a 4-2 win over Atletico San Luis but struggled in the absence of Messi and several other key players. Young forward Daniel Pinter made his senior debut alongside Lovens Delinois, as the team dealt with significant roster challenges.

Rodrigo De Paul scored for Miami in the 32nd minute, honoring Messi with a tribute, but the team could not maintain their lead. With only one match left against Club Leon, who have won their first two games, Miami must win decisively while hoping for favorable outcomes in other matches to avoid missing the knockout stage for the first time since Messi joined the team.