Is Lionel Messi playing today for Inter Miami vs Atlas at the 2025 Leagues Cup?

After serving a one-match suspension, Lionel Messi could be back on the pitch with Inter Miami for their 2025 Leagues Cup debut. Check out his status for the match against Atlas.

Inter Miami will play their first match of the 2025 Leagues Cup tournament against Liga MX side Atlas tonight (July 30) at Chase Stadium. After Lionel Messi missed the goalless draw with Cincinnati due to a suspension for skipping the MLS All-Star Game, the Argentine star is expected to return to the pitch.

Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said that Messi was ready to play, even joking about the suspension. “If they don’t suspend him, then yes. He’s going to be available unless there’s a suspension,” he said in a press conference on July 29.

“Let’s hope he’s super motivated,” Mascherano added, explaining that the break was “in a way, good for him” ahead of Miami’s tight upcoming schedule. The draw with Cincinnati marked Messi’s first match off since April 27.

The World Cup champion played 22 of Miami’s last 23 matches, including games in the MLS regular season, Concacaf Champions Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. In total, Messi has played 29 matches in 2025, scoring 24 goals.

Messi has fond memories of the Leagues Cup, having played a key role in Inter Miami’s 2023 title win shortly after his arrival. It was the club’s first trophy and remains one of their major objectives this year.

Miami’s Leagues Cup pathway

This year, the tournament features a new format. In Phase One, Miami will play three matches within a week. After facing Atlas, the Herons will take on Necaxa (Aug. 2) and Pumas UNAM (Aug. 6).

To advance to the quarterfinals, Miami must finish in the top four of the MLS table. On the bright side, all of their Phase One matches will be played at Chase Stadium. Leagues Cup will be broadcast on Apple TV+ through MLS Season Pass.

From: bolavip.com