Inter Miami faced a disappointing 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo in the final of the US Open Cup, with star forward Lionel Messi watching from the stands.
The 36-year-old Messi had been sidelined due to an “old injury,” and his absence was notable in the match. Griffin Dorsey and an Amine Bassi penalty gave Houston a 2-0 lead in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While Josef Martinez scored a late consolation goal for Miami, it wasn’t enough to secure the victory.
Messi’s presence on the sidelines raised questions about his fitness, with Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino emphasising the importance of ensuring Messi’s full recovery.
Martino stated that it would not have been prudent to risk Messi’s health in the match and assured fans that Messi would return to play before the end of the league season. The regular MLS season concludes on October 21, with play-offs scheduled from October 25 to December 9.
Since joining Inter Miami in July after his Paris St-Germain contract expired, Messi has contributed 11 goals and five assists for the MLS franchise. He also helped them to win the Leagues Cup.
