July 31, (THEWILL) — Inter Miami began their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Atlas on Wednesday, sealed by Marcelo Weigandt’s stoppage-time goal. Lionel Messi, though not on the scoresheet, was instrumental in both Miami goals, continuing his influential form in the competition. The match, played at DRV PNK Stadium, saw a tightly contested first half with chances at both ends, including Luis Suárez’s thunderous strike against the crossbar just before the break.
The deadlock was broken in the 57th minute when Messi collected Sergio Busquets’ throughball and unselfishly squared it for Telasco Segovia to tap home. Atlas responded in the 80th minute as Rivaldo Lozano capitalised on defensive hesitation, firing past Rocco Rios Novo to level the score. Miami’s persistence paid off deep into added time when Messi combined with Suárez on the left flank before teeing up Weigandt for a straightforward finish.
Despite Atlas registering more shots on target (seven to Miami’s five), Javier Mascherano’s side managed to grind out the win. Messi’s creative influence was pivotal, marking his 13th goal contribution in his last eight Leagues Cup appearances (10 goals, three assists). The result leaves Miami third in Group A, behind Portland Timbers, who thrashed San Luis 4-0 earlier in the day.
Atlas will rue missed opportunities, particularly in a first half where Tadeo Allende and Eduardo Aguirre were denied by sharp goalkeeping. Miami’s improved second-half intensity ultimately proved decisive, though defensive frailties remain a concern ahead of their next fixture. The Mexican side’s inability to clear their lines in the dying moments allowed Messi to deliver the decisive assist.
Inter Miami now turn their attention to their next group-stage clash, aiming to build momentum in the tournament. Messi’s fitness and form will be critical as they seek to progress beyond the knockout stages, a feat they narrowly missed in 2024. For Atlas, the focus shifts to regrouping before their must-win encounter against San Luis.
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.
