Inter Miami Wins Leagues Cup Penalty Shootout vs Necaxa after Messi Injury

Inter Miami edged out Club Necaxa in a thrilling Leagues Cup clash decided by a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw, despite losing key player Lionel Messi early to a hamstring injury. Messi exited the match in the 11th minute due to the injury, but his teammates, including Luis Suárez and newcomer Rodrigo De Paul, stepped up to secure the win, with Suárez scoring the decisive penalty and De Paul contributing assists during the match. Necaxa took the lead twice during regulation, but veteran Jordi Alba scored a late equalizer, forcing the shootout where Miami converted all their attempts. Prior to this match, Inter Miami, led by Messi's 24 goals in 29 games and Suárez's team-high 13 assists, had demonstrated strong form, including a recent victory over Atlas FC, while Necaxa had also shown their competitiveness with a win over Atlanta United. Miami head coach Javier Mascherano emphasized maintaining team momentum and praised De Paul's impactful debut alongside Messi, focusing on tactical discipline to contain Necaxa's offense and aiming to secure a knockout phase spot. The victory advances Inter Miami’s campaign in the 2025 Leagues Cup, highlighting their resilience and depth despite the challenge of losing their star player early in the match.