By James Nalton
Lionel Messi has returned from his one-game suspension for lacking the All-Star recreation and his Inter Miami crew will face Mexican aspect Atlas of their opening recreation, trying to relive their 2023 success on this event.
Messi’s likelihood at one other trophy
Although Inter Miami did not win the MLS Cup in Messi’s first full season in 2024, they’d gained the inaugural version of the expanded Leagues Cup in 2023, simply after Messi arrived.
It was seen as an indication of issues to return and the start of Inter Miami’s dominance of North American soccer, however although they did win the MLS Supporters’ Protect for topping the general standings in 2024, they’re but to follow-up that 2023 Leagues Cup triumph in different cup competitions.
This event presents an opportunity for Inter Miami to get again within the hunt for trophies and meet the degrees anticipated of them since Messi joined.
The arrival at Miami of Messi’s buddy Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid ought to assist, and he’s anticipated to seem sooner or later throughout this event.
New Leagues Cup format
The Leagues Cup (which you’ll observe within the app – right here) has modified format as soon as once more, and somewhat than involving all 30 groups from MLS, solely contains 18 to match the variety of groups from Liga MX.
MLS versus Liga MX video games have understandably been essentially the most intriguing matchups in earlier editions of this event, and the massive benefit of the brand new format is that it ensures such matches all through the league stage and within the quarterfinals.
A brand new league section, not dissimilar to the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League however with two leagues somewhat than one, replaces the unique group stage.
Although Mexican sides will face MLS sides in all league section video games, the 18 taking part MLS groups will likely be in a single league desk and the 18 from Liga MX in one other. The highest 4 from every advance to the knockout stage.
When Inter Miami gained the Leagues Cup in 2023, they solely confronted one Mexican crew within the seven video games they performed.
This version, due to this fact, ought to present them with a correct take a look at towards Mexican opposition.
Opposition watch: Atlas
Atlas have begun the brand new Liga MX season with a win, a draw, and a defeat within the opening three video games of the Apertura, taking a blended bag of type into the Leagues Cup.
They have been knocked out within the final 32 by compatriots Membership América final yr, and misplaced on penalties to New England Revolution on the identical stage in 2023.
Atlas attacking star Eduardo Aguirre has began the brand new Mexican season with a purpose and an help within the three video games they’ve performed, whereas 22-year-old Paraguayan Diego González appears to be like set to contribute extra usually this season.
Montenegro worldwide ahead Uroš Đurđević will likely be trying to get within the objectives, and their again line options the one-time Brazilian wonderkid, Dória, the left-footed centre-back who’s now aged 30.
Prediction
An early event assertion win for Messi and Miami.
(Cowl Picture from IMAGO)
You’ll be able to observe each Inter Miami recreation reside this season with FotMob — that includes deep stats protection together with shot maps, xG, and participant rankings. Obtain the free app right here.