With Lionel Messi injured, Inter Miami recover suspended player to face Pumas UNAM after successful appeal

Inter Miami‘s journey in the 2025 Leagues Cup began with a resounding victory over Atlas. However, their path grew more complicated after their latest victory against Necaxa as Lionel Messi suffered an injury, leaving him out for the upcoming games. Despite this setback, the team gained a boost by successfully appealing a controversial sending-off, allowing for the return of a key player to face Pumas UNAM.

Although Inter Miami clinched victory against Necaxa with a penalty shootout, the referee’s decisions during the match sparked controversy. Head coach Javier Mascherano even expressed strong dissatisfaction with referee Daniel Quintero’s performance. As a result, the 2025 Leagues Cup disciplinary committee subsequently upheld the team’s complaint.

“Inter Miami CF submitted a claim before the Leagues Cup 2025 Disciplinary Committee to rescind the red card issued to player Maximiliano Falcon. The Committee determined, based on Chapter XIII of the Leagues Cup Tournament Regulations, to rescind the red card. Therefore, the player will be eligible to participate in the upcoming match, and the Fair Play Table will be adjusted,” Inter Miami announced, via X.

Maximiliano’s return to the defensive line comes as a significant relief for Javier Mascherano, as he has been instrumental in restoring the team’s defensive solidity. His impressive performances have quickly established him as a regular in Inter Miami’s lineup, even though he has only appeared in 28 games with the team.

Maximiliano Falcon #37 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after Telasco Segovia #8 of Inter Miami CF scores his team’s first goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

With Maximiliano Falcon, Inter Miami aim to advance past Pumas in key knockout clash

Inter Miami look to secure their place in the next round of the 2025 Leagues Cup by beating Pumas. While Lionel Messi’s confirmed absence is a major blow, Javier Mascherano can count on Maximiliano Falcon in defense, ensuring a strong performance alongside Gonzalo Lujan.

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Javier Mascherano confirms Lionel Messi’s status for Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup game vs Pumas UNAM

In Messi’s absence, head coach Mascherano may include Telasco Segovia in the attacking midfield, granting him more freedom to move. Additionally, the likely presence of Rodrigo De Paul alongside Sergio Busquets will be vital to counter the Mexican team, which features high-level players such as Adalberto Carrasquilla, who has already scored three goals in the tournament.