Messi – Inter Miami is gearing up for a challenging Round of 16 Leagues Cup match against the Columbus Crew in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday night. The Miami squad, defending their Leagues Cup title, will be without star player Lionel Messi, who is sidelined due to an injury. Despite Miami’s strong season performance and their victory over Columbus in a mid-June MLS match, Coach Tata Martino acknowledges the Crew as “the best team in the league, by far.”
The anticipation for Tuesday’s game hasn’t quite matched the hype of last year’s Round of 16 clash against FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium, which featured Messi’s road debut in Miami’s colors and drew significant international attention. The game sold out quickly, with secondary market ticket prices soaring. In contrast, tickets for the upcoming match at Lower.com Stadium were available for as low as $25, reflecting a quieter pregame atmosphere and less media attention than last summer.
Inter Miami is determined to defend its title despite the lower profile of the Leagues Cup matches this year. Columbus Crew, unbeaten in their last five home games, is coming off a decisive 4-0 victory over Sporting Kansas City in the Round of 32. Miami, on the other hand, narrowly defeated Toronto FC 4-3 in their previous match, despite being a player down for 70 minutes.
Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender echoes Coach Martino’s sentiments about the Crew’s formidable season and performance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, noting the pressure of playing on the road in an elimination match. “We know they’re a cohesive and quick team with smart players who excel in possession. It’s an away game and an elimination round, which adds pressure, but these are the games professional players thrive on,” said Callender.
Columbus Crew, led by Coach Wilfried Nancy, has maintained a high standard from the previous season. Players to watch include Diego Rossi, who scored twice in the Round of 32, as well as recent additions Dylan Chambost and DeJuan Jones. Colombian forward Cucho Hernandez and veteran Darlington Nagbe also add depth to the Crew’s lineup.
Martino has high praise for the Crew, commending their defined style of play and consistent execution. “They may not win every game, but they always dictate the terms of play, and their players know how to implement their strategy effectively,” Martino commented.
Messi’s Ankle Injury Update
Lionel Messi will be absent for his 11th consecutive game due to a ligament injury in his right ankle, sustained during the Copa America final on July 14 at Hard Rock Stadium. Messi, who has progressed from wearing a protective boot to gym work, remains without a clear timeline for his return. Coach Martino remains hopeful for a full roster recovery by the month’s end. “It’s been tough without Leo for the last two months. He’s a key player for us, and his absence is felt both on and off the field,” Callender added. “He’s committed to his recovery, and his presence at the club, even while injured, is motivating for the rest of the squad.”
In addition to Messi’s absence, Miami will miss center back David Martinez, suspended due to a red card in the match against Toronto. This could see Sergio Busquets dropping back to the defensive line and Yannick Bright stepping in as a defensive midfielder.
The Leagues Cup seeding and home-field advantage are based on the previous season’s standings. Although Miami clinched the tournament, their second-to-last finish in the 2023 Eastern Conference means they’re seeded lower than most remaining MLS teams. Consequently, Miami’s only chance to host a game would be if they face one of the six remaining Mexican Liga MX teams or the Colorado Rapids in the final.
How to Watch Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew
The match will kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday at Lower.com Stadium and will be broadcast on Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass.
Cesar Montes to Inter Miami?
With the MLS transfer window closing on August 16, rumors have surfaced linking Inter Miami with Mexican national team defender Cesar Montes, currently playing for Spain’s Almeria. Coach Martino spoke highly of Montes, stating, “Cesar is an exceptional player and person. We’re always open to transfers, but we have already filled our left center back position. However, should the opportunity arise, we’d be glad to welcome a player like Cesar.”