Lionel MessiMajor League SoccerInter Miami CFInter Miami CF vs MonterreyMonterreyCONCACAF Champions Cup

Argentine working his way back from injury
Played no part in meeting with Mexican foes
Hoping to be fit for quarter-final second leg

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Herons have it all to do in order to keep themselves in contention for major silverware in that competition. They did take the lead in the first leg of a heavyweight quarter-final encounter as Tomas Aviles found the target, but conceded twice in the second half after seeing David Ruiz sent off.
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NEXT MATCHES

Major League Soccer
INTER MIAMI CFInter Miami CF

COLORADO RAPIDSColorado Rapids
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Liga MX
CRUZ AZULCruz Azul

MONTERREYMonterrey
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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Argentine superstar Messi played no part in that contest as he works his way back from injury, but he was still singled out by visiting fans to Florida. Monterrey followers took to singing “Messi was afraid” as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remained rooted to a seat in the stands.

Lionel Messi Inter Miami sidelined 2024Getty Images

DID YOU KNOW?

Inter Miami will be hoping to have their talismanic No.10 back for a return date with Monterrey. They are due in Mexico on April 10, with at least two goals required in order to progress through an event that still boasts an away goals rule.

Inter Miami's Argentine coach Gerardo Martino stands with his Argentine forward #10 Lionel MessiGetty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR INTER MIAMI?

Tata Martino’s side will be in MLS action prior to that against Colorado on Saturday, with it possible that Messi – who has returned to training – will be involved in that fixture as he works his way back towards full match sharpness.