August 03, (THEWILL) — Inter Miami fought back to claim a 2–2 draw against Necaxa before winning 4–3 on penalties in a dramatic Leagues Cup encounter early on Sunday morning.
Lionel Messi’s early injury forced his substitution in the 11th minute, but Telasco Segovia gave Miami the lead moments later.
The match turned chaotic when Maxi Falcón was sent off in the 17th minute, allowing Necaxa’s Tomás Badaloni to equalise before half-time.
Necaxa’s Cristian Calderón also saw red in the second half, leading to an open, end-to-end contest. Ricardo Monreal put the Mexican side ahead in the 83rd minute, but Jordi Alba’s stoppage-time strike forced penalties.
Luis Suárez converted the decisive spot-kick, claiming two points for Miami in the Leagues Cup’s unique scoring system.
Rodrigo De Paul was named Player of the Match for his commanding midfield display, earning an 8.8 rating. Miami’s Rocco Ríos Novo made crucial saves, while Necaxa’s Agustín Palavecino impressed with his creativity.
The result leaves Miami needing a strong performance against Pumas UNAM to advance to the knockout stages.
Messi’s injury cast a shadow over the match, with the Argentine leaving the pitch after a heavy challenge. Manager Gerardo Martino confirmed post-match that the severity of the knock would be assessed in the coming days.
Miami’s ability to grind out a result without its talisman could prove vital in its League Cup campaign.
The match drew a sell-out crowd at DRV PNK Stadium, with fans witnessing a tense, unpredictable encounter.
Miami’s next fixture against Pumas UNAM on August 7 will determine their fate in the competition, while Necaxa face a must-win clash against Orlando City to keep their hopes alive.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
