As Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez makes his long-awaited debut, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami host Cruz Azul at Nu Stadium in the 2026 Campeones Cup. Stay with us and don’t miss a single live update ahead of the decisive showdown in Magic City.
Unless Gonzalez is unfamiliar with the saying, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” he should play it safe with his opening starting XI for the Herons. That means Messi is expected to play in Inter Miami’s predicted lineup against Cruz Azul, as the Argentine chases yet another trophy for his cabinet.
Even if there are questions about whether the 2026 Campeones Cup is an official title or not, the Herons won’t want to lose a championship game at home. A loss would not only stain “Kily” Gonzalez’s debut in Inter Miami but also leave a mark on Messi’s personal record against Liga MX clubs throughout his career.
Whether Messi and Inter Miami win or lose against Cruz Azul, there will be no refunds. In the event of a tie, the 2026 Campeones Cup between the 2025 MLS Cup champs and Liga MX’s Campeon de Campeones will be decided in a penalty shootout, with no extra time. Based on Messi’s recent World Cup final experience, that might be a good omen for the Herons’ Argentine ace.
