On July 30, 2025, Inter Miami kicked off their Leagues Cup 2025 campaign with a heart-stopping 2–1 victory over Mexico’s Atlas FC at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Match Highlights & Scoreline
- Final Score: Inter Miami 2 — 1 Atlas
- Scorers:
- 57′: Telasco Segovia gives Miami the lead, assisted by Messi
- 80′: Rivaldo Lozano draws Atlas level with a clinical chance in the box
- 96′ (stoppage time): Marcelo Weigandt nets the winner after a Messi assist confirmed by VAR
Messi provided both assists, including the stoppage-time winner—his return after a one-match suspension was nothing short of sensational .
Tactical Review & Key Performances
Lionel Messi (9/10): Supremely influential, creating both of Miami’s goals with exquisite vision. His final-minute pass swung the match in Miami’s favor.
Rodrigo De Paul (8/10): Delivered a strong debut—93% pass accuracy, several key passes, and excellent work rate in midfield. His presence elevated the team’s structure and ambition on the ball.
Marcelo Weigandt (7.8/10): Solid defensively and decisive with the late strike. His finish under pressure made the difference
Other standouts include Rocco Ríos Novo’s sharp saves to keep Inter Miami in the game early, and Jordi Alba, who helped fuel attacks down the flank
First-Half vs Second-Half Flow
- First Half: Tight and tactical—a Chilean chess match
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Inter Miami 2–1 Atlas |
| Goal Timeline | Segovia (57′), Lozano (80′), Weigandt (96′ VAR-verified) |
| Key Players | Messi (2 assists), De Paul (debut impact), Weigandt (winner) |
| Tactical Formation | 4‑2‑3‑1 with Messi centrally backed by De Paul & Busquets |
| Momentum | Miami picks up 3 points, Atlas rue missed opportunities |
Fan & Media Insights
- Messi praised De Paul’s arrival as a major boost for Miami’s title aspirations, noting the Argentine’s compatibility and physical intensity
What It Means for Miami & Atlas
- For Miami: A dramatic start to Leagues Cup phase one—Messi’s return is timely, De Paul integrates seamlessly, and squad depth shows promise. Next up: Atlas’ regional rivals Necaxa on August 2
FOR MORE BLOGS – beyondthepunchlines.com
Author: Team BTP
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