Under Leagues Cup regulations, if lightning is detected in the vicinity of the stadium, play must be suspended while players and fans seek shelter. If conditions improve, the match can resume after a 30-minute delay. However, with heavy rain pouring down in Miami, the stoppage could last even longer.

Lionel Messi had scored a brace—his first since the 2026 World Cup—but play was suspended with a little more than 20 minutes remaining in regulation, as the Herons held a 4-2 lead over Atletico San Luis.

Familiar sight

Fans in the United States are already accustomed to these types of delays, especially during the summer and in cities like Miami. However, not many saw this coming, as the game between the Herons and Tuneros began under pleasant weather. In the blink of an eye, dark clouds rolled over Nu Stadium in the second half, and it started raining cats and dogs.

The weather protocols came into play several times during the 2026 World Cup, leading to lengthy delays in multiple matches. The 2026 Leagues Cup has been no different. It may catch Liga MX fans by surprise, but for MLS supporters, this is nothing new.

Back in action

Fortunately, the weather delay lasted about as long as initially expected. The storm was only temporary, and after a 20-minute break, the players returned to the pitch to warm up. Half an hour after play was suspended, the match resumed.

Keep an eye on Miami’s weather moving forward

Inter Miami will host its upcoming Leagues Cup matches against Monterrey and Leon on Aug. 8 and 12. With the forecast calling for more rain and thunderstorms in Magic City over the coming week, this is something to keep an eye on, as more weather delays could be in store.

Inter Miami had conceded an early goal to Atletico San Luis, as David Rodriguez caught the defense by surprise with a header to defeat Rocco Rios-Novo. However, it didn’t take long for the Herons to react.

Noah Allen whipped a mid-height cross that found none other than Messi, who connected with an effective volley to get the ball past Andres Sanchez and bring the Herons level. Once again, Messi looked an extremely difficult shot look easy.

If anyone questioned whether Messi would play against Atletico San Luis, he made sure to make an immediate impact. Late in the first half, Messi added another goal to his tally, giving the Herons a 3-1 lead. Not only that, but left back Allen recorded a hat trick of assists. Messi got an assist of the own in the last play of the first half, as Micael scored his team’s fourth of the night so far.

Leagues Cup suits Messi

With his goal against Atletico San Luis on Matchday 1 of the 2026 Leagues Cup, Messi has extended his form in the cross MLS-Liga MX tournament. The Herons’ star is now up to 14 goals in the Leagues Cup.

Messi scored 10 goals in his debut campaign in 2023, leading Inter Miami (then coached by Gerardo Martino) to the first title in franchise history. In 2024, he didn’t play because of injury, while he scored two goals in four games during the 2025 Leagues Cup.

Now, he’s already up to two goals in one appearance. With Messi back among the goals, Inter Miami have reason to dream of a second Leagues Cup title.

Messi’s goals for Inter Miami

Not only is Messi a goal-scoring guarantee in the Leagues Cup, he keeps scoring in bunches for the Herons. Since his move to the Magic City, Messi has scored 92 goals for Inter Miami. Moreover, he registers 52 assists for South Florida’s MLS club.

Suarez received the lengthy suspension after the 2025 Leagues Cup Final. Following the final whistle and Seattle’s 3-0 rout of Inter Miami, tempers flared between the two sides. Suarez, however, crossed the line when he spat at a Sounders staff member.

Tournament organizers handed him a six-game suspension, which he will begin serving in the 2026 edition. As a result, he won’t play against Atletico San Luis in Matchday 1 of the round robin. As a matter of fact, Suarez won’t play any game in this tournament. On the other hand, Lionel Messi will indeed play for Inter Miami against Atletico San Luis, in a game he will have big responsibilities.

Suarez will be suspended for entire 2026 Leagues Cup

Because Suarez was handed a six-game ban and Inter Miami would play a maximum of six matches by reaching the final, the veteran striker is set to miss the entire 2026 Leagues Cup. If Inter Miami are eliminated before the final, then Suarez will have to serve the remaining games of his suspension in the 2027 Leagues Cup.

Without him, the Herons will need several key players to step up and fill the void. Chief among them is Messi, who will need to be the driving force behind Inter Miami—as he usually is—throughout the tournament.

Reports suggest Inter Miami may appeal the decision and hope to have part of the suspension reduced, but Suarez’s actions were egregious, and it doesn’t appear the Leagues Cup’s governing body will reverse its decision.

More troubles for Inter Miami

Not only will the Herons be without Suarez for—as things stand—the entire Leagues Cup, but they may also have trouble replacing him. German Berterame would have been the top option to fill the No. 9 role, but he has yet to be cleared following the scary injury he suffered during an MLS match against CF Montréal.

The Argentine-Mexican had to leave the field in an ambulance and has yet to return to the lineup. Head coach Guillermo Hoyos admitted Berterame is “days away” from returning to action, but whether he will be available for the upcoming Leagues Cup matches remains to be seen.

Without Suarez and Berterame, Hoyos is turning to Daniel Pinter as Inter Miami’s striker. That, in turn, means Hoyos will pass over options like Tadeo Allende and Mateo Silvetti, both fellow Argentines. With a roster depleted by injuries and suspension, Hoyos and Inter Miami must make do with what they have.

How to watch Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

The match will stream live exclusively on Apple TV. No traditional U.S. television channel has been assigned to this fixture, making Apple TV the only official platform for viewers in the United States.

Can I watch Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis for free?

No. There is currently no official way to watch Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis for free in the United States. The match is part of the Leagues Cup broadcast package and requires access through Apple TV. The service offers a free trial before the paid subscription becomes active though.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Inter Miami begin their 2026 Leagues Cup campaign with a home clash against Atletico San Luis, looking to make a strong start in a tournament that has become one of the club’s top priorities. Lionel Messi is expected to start against Atletico San Luis today.

The Herons lifted the inaugural expanded Leagues Cup trophy in 2023 with Messi leading the way, but they fell short in the 2025 final against the Seattle Sounders.

With only the top-performing teams advancing from Phase One, every point is crucial, making an opening victory especially valuable before tougher tests against Monterrey and Club Leon later in the stage. A win, tie or loss will have different implications for Inter Miami today.

The match also marks Inter Miami’s return to cup action following the 2026 FIFA World Cup break, with Messi back in the squad after helping Argentina defend its world title. However, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will have to cope without striker Luis Suarez, who isn’t playing today as he’s facing a six-game Leagues Cup suspension after disciplinary action stemming from last year’s Leagues Cup final.

Atletico San Luis, meanwhile, arrive eager to pull off an upset against one of MLS’s biggest clubs and boost their chances of reaching the knockout rounds in a tournament that once again pits MLS and Liga MX sides against one another from the very first matchday.

Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis: Predicted Lineups

Inter Miami (4-3-3): Rios Novo; Mura, Caicedo, Micael, Allen; De Paul, Casemiro, Bright; Pinter, Silvetti, Messi.

Atletico San Luis (3-4-2-1): Sanchez; Aguila, Bambu, Garcia; Esteves, Macías, Salles-Lamonge, Torres; Rodriguez, Llorente; Flores.

What time is the Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis match?

The match kicks off on Wednesday, August 5, at 7:30 PM ET. Here are the start times across the United States:

Eastern Time (ET): 7:30 PM
Central Time (CT): 6:30 PM
Mountain Time (MT): 5:30 PM
Pacific Time (PT): 4:30 PM

After the break for the FIFA Club World Cup, Messi returned to action against the Columbus Crew in what ended as a 2-2 draw in another MLS matchday. Now, the No. 10 hopes to lead his Herons to another piece of silverware.

This being the case, and knowing that Luis Suarez can’t play in the 2026 Leagues Cup debut, this is the starting XI that Hoyos will sent onto the pitch: Rocco Rios-Novo (GK); Ian Fray, Fricio Caicedo, Micael dos Santos Silva, Noah Allen; Rodrigo De Paul, Casemiro, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi (C), Daniel Pinter.

A tournament that suits Inter Miami well

The Leagues Cup has quickly defined Inter Miami’s rise on the continental stage, highlighted by their historic 2023 title—the first trophy in franchise history following Messi’s iconic debut. The Herons proved their mastery of the tournament’s knockout format once again in 2025 by marching all the way to the final.

Although they fell short of a second title after a 3–0 defeat to the Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field, reaching two finals in three years cemented the Leagues Cup as a tournament where Miami consistently performs at its best.

How does Atletico San Luis enter this match?

Atletico San Luis head into their Leagues Cup debut against Inter Miami following a mixed start to the Liga MX Apertura 2026 season. In their last three domestic matches, Los Potosinos suffered a tight 3–2 defeat against Cruz Azul, followed by consecutive draws—a 2–2 stalemate away against Tigres and a 0–0 home draw against Club Tijuana.

Inter Miami’s record against Mexican teams

Having played a total of seven matches against Mexican teams, Inter Miami hold a positive record of six wins and just one defeat, which came against Tigres.

• 2023: Defeated Cruz Azul 2–1 in the group stage.
• 2024: Beat Puebla 2–0 in the group stage, suffered their sole loss against Tigres UANL (1–2), and defeated Pumas UNAM 5–3 in the Round of 16.
• 2025: Won all four matchups against Mexican opposition, beating Atlas 2–1, defeating Necaxa in a penalty shootout after a 2–2 draw, topping Pumas UNAM 3–1, and earning a 2–1 victory over Tigres UANL in the quarterfinals.

How to watch Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

Fans in the United States have more than one way to watch this exciting matchup. Traditional television coverage will be available on FOX Deportes.

Those who prefer streaming can watch the game live on Fubo or FOX One, with coverage available across a wide range of compatible devices.

Can I watch Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis for free?

Soccer fans across the United States can watch this exciting matchup live through Fubo available nationwide.

Viewers can enjoy complete live coverage and catch every key moment from kickoff to the final whistle with a 5-days free trial.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Tigres UANL and Atletico San Luis will look to bounce back after disappointing starts to the tournament when they meet in a crucial Liga MX matchup.

Tigres endured a tough 3-1 loss to Tijuana, a surprising setback after a strong first half of the year, while Atletico San Luis fell 3-2 to defending champions Cruz Azul in a much tighter contest.

With both sides still searching for their first victory, they enter this clash determined to recover from their opening defeats and secure three valuable points.

Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis: Predicted Lineups

Tigres UANL (4-2-3-1): Nahuel Guzmán; Jesús Garza, Joaquim, Rômulo, Vladimir Loroña; Fernando Gorriarán, Carlos Araujo; Diego Lainez, Juan Brunetta, Ozziel Herrera; Rodrigo Aguirre.

Atletico San Luis (4-4-2): Andrés Sánchez; Alberto Cruz, Eduardo Águila, Ricardo Bambu, Rodrigo Torres; Denis Rodríguez, Rodrigo Llorente Sanz, Oscar Macías, Luis Flores; Lucas Esteves, Sébastien Salles-Lamonge.

What time is the Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis match?

The match kicks off today, July 25, at 11:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 11:00 PM
Central Time: 10:00 PM
Mountain Time: 9:00 PM
Pacific Time: 8:00 PM

[Watch Club America vs Atletico San Luis online in the US on DirecTV Stream]

Club America’s Clausura 2026 campaign got off to an underwhelming start, as Las Aguilas settled for a scoreless draw against Tijuana in a result that failed to match preseason expectations. Eager to notch their first win of the tournament, America now returns home with a chance to reset.

However, complacency won’t be an option against an Atletico San Luis side looking to rebound after a 2–1 home loss to Tigres UANL. San Luis enter the matchup motivated to make an early statement, while America aim to capitalize on home-field advantage and deliver the kind of performance their fans are still waiting to see.

When will the Club America vs Atletico San Luis match be played?

Club America take on Atletico San Luis in the Matchday 2 of the Liga MX Clausura 2026 this Wednesday, January 14. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM (ET).

Club America vs Atletico San Luis: Time by State in the USA

ET: 8:00 PM
CT: 7:00 PM
MT: 6:00 PM
PT: 5:00 PM

How to watch Club America vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

This Liga MX clash between Club America and Atletico San Luis will be available for viewers in the USA on DirecTV Stream. Other options: UniMás.

[Watch Chivas vs Atletico San Luis online for FREE in the US on Fubo]

Chivas return to action still searching for their first points of the Apertura after dropping their opener 1-0 to Club Leon—a delayed debut that also came amid controversy surrounding star forward Chicharito Hernandez.

They’ll try to bounce back against an Atletico San Luis side that started the campaign strong with a win but stumbled in their second outing, falling to Monterrey. Both clubs are looking to rebound and build early momentum in the race toward the top of the Liga MX table.

When will the Chivas vs Atletico San Luis match be played?

Chivas take on Atletico San Luis in the Matchday 3 of the Liga MX Apertura 2025 this Saturday, July 26. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:05 PM (ET).

Chivas vs Atletico San Luis: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:05 PM
CT: 6:05 PM
MT: 5:05 PM
PT: 4:05 PM

How to watch Chivas vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

This Liga MX clash between Chivas and Atletico San Luis will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Telemundo, Universo, DirecTV Stream, Peacock Premium.

[Watch Leon vs Atletico San Luis online in the US on DirecTV Stream]

Club Leon and Atletico San Luis renew their rivalry under contrasting circumstances from the Clausura 2025 season. Leon finished strong with 30 points and secured a direct spot in the quarterfinals, only to be knocked out by Cruz Azul.

With James Rodriguez leading the charge, Leon are aiming to bounce back and make a deeper run this time. Atletico San Luis, on the other hand, failed to reach the playoffs after managing just 18 points, and enters the new tournament eager to turn things around and make a statement early.

When will the Leon vs Atletico San Luis match be played?

Leon face Atletico San Luis in the Matchday 1 of the Liga MX Apertura 2025 this Sunday, July 13. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM (ET).

Leon vs Atletico San Luis: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Leon vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

This Liga MX clash between Leon and Atletico San Luis will be available for viewers in the USA on DirecTV Stream. Other options: TUDN.

[Watch Cruz Azul vs Atletico San Luis online for FREE in the US on Amazon Prime Video]

Cruz Azul enter this matchup riding high after a dominant 4-1 win over the Seattle Sounders, securing their place in the next round of the Concacaf Champions Cup. Now, they will be targeting another victory to stay in the top six and potentially climb higher.

Their opponent, Atletico San Luis, have struggled with just three wins and eight losses but remains in contention for a Play-in spot. A win here could reignite their postseason hopes as they look to turn their form around.

When will the Cruz Azul vs Atletico San Luis match be played?

Cruz Azul face off against Atletico San Luis in the Matchday 12 of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 this Saturday, March 15. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM (ET).

Cruz Azul vs Atletico San Luis: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM

CT: 8:00 PM

MT: 7:00 PM

PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Cruz Azul vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

This Liga MX clash between Cruz Azul and Atletico San Luis will be available for viewers in the USA on TUDN, Univision, ViX. However, with both TUDN and Univision no longer included on Fubo, fans cannot use this streaming platform to catch all Liga MX action.

To watch the game for free, you have to subscribe to Amazon Prime Video which offers a 30-day free trial. From the Amazon Prime platform, you can subscribe to ViX (with a 7-day free trial) and there you will have free access to this Liga MX match.

Club America are aiming to replicate their dominant form from 2024, a year where they were nearly unstoppable. They remain on track, sharing the top spot with Tigres UANL after a Matchday 3 draw between the two sides. Now, Las Aguilas are focused on securing another win to maintain their position at the summit.

Their next challenge comes against Atletico San Luis, a team looking to rebound after a rocky start of two losses and one win. San Luis are eager to claim three points to stay in contention for the top spots but face a daunting task against a red-hot Club America.

When will the Club America vs Atletico San Luis match be played?

Club America receive Atletico San Luis in the Matchday 4 of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 this Tuesday, January 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM (ET).

Club America vs Atletico San Luis: Time by State in the USA

ET: 8:00 PM

CT: 7:00 PM

MT: 6:00 PM

PT: 5:00 PM

How to watch Club America vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

This Liga MX clash between Club America and Atletico San Luis will be available for viewers in the USA on TUDN and DirecTV Stream.

However, with both TUDN and Univision no longer included on Fubo, fans cannot use this streaming platform to catch all Liga MX action.