Inter Miami marked its opening game of the 2025 Leagues Cup with a dramatic 2–1 victory over Liga MX’s Atlas at Chase Stadium. The match was intense and showcased why Inter Miami is firmly on the map, thanks to Lionel Messi’s two decisive assists and Marcelo Weygandt’s stoppage-time heroics. Rodrigo De Paul also made his debut, adding fresh talent to Miami’s midfield.
Segovia’s First Goal Opens the Scoring in a Tight Game
The match remained deadlocked through a cautious first half. Both teams tried to break through, but championship nerves and tight marking kept chances scarce. Finally, in the second half, the breakthrough came. Segovia received a precise ball from Messi and slotted it home.
His goal not only lifted the mood among fans, but also rewarded Miami’s persistent attack that had gradually worn down Atlas’s defense.
Rodrigo De Paul Impresses on His First Miami Appearance
Argentinian world champion Rodrigo De Paul officially earned his first Inter Miami start during this Leagues Cup match. He played the full 90 minutes, demonstrating excellent vision and composure in midfield. Reports showed he completed over 90% of his passes, including three key passes that created genuine scoring chances.
De Paul spoke afterward about his excitement to link up with Messi again and his desire to help the team lift another trophy.
Atlas Respond Quickly With Lozano Equalizer
Just when it looked like Miami would hold their narrow lead, Guadalajara side Atlas delivered an unexpected blow. In the 80th minute, Rivaldo Lozano capitalized on a loose ball in Miami’s box and struck a left-footed finish into the net.
The equalizer felt like a comeback for Atlas and pushed the game into extra drama as both teams searched for a winner in the final minutes.
Lionel Messi Provide two amazing assists
From the very start, Lionel Messi showed he was back in top form. In the 57th minute, Sergio Busquets played a brilliant through ball to Messi, who calmly greeted it and set it up for Telasco Segovia to score the opener. Segovia tapped it in with ease, giving Miami the lead and sparking celebration in the stadium.
Then, in injury time, Messi delivered another decisive pass this time to Marcelo Weigandt who scored the 95th-minute winner after a VAR check confirmed the goal. These two assists underline Messi’s growing impact in the tournament
Marcelo Weigandt’s Last-Gasp Goal Seals an Unforgettable Win
With the crowd on the edge of their seats, the match reached its climax in added time. In a chaotic moment in the box, the ball fell to Marcelo Weigandt, who buried it into the net for the 2–1 lead.
The assistant referee initially flagged it as offside, but a VAR review overturned the decision. The stadium erupted at full-time as Miami players and fans celebrated a memorable victory.
With this win, Inter Miami leads its group with momentum ahead of their next match against Necaxa on August 3. A perfect start in this three-game phase puts them in a strong position to qualify for the knockout rounds. Coach Javier Mascherano praised his team’s resilience and focus.
Rodrigo De Paul Joins Inter Miami €15M Move from Atlético Madrid 
Messi Magic 4 Goals and 3 Assists in 2 Games For Inter Miami 
Inter Miami vs. San Jose A Thrilling 3-3 Draw Lights Up MLS 2025 
Messi and Suarez Shine as Inter Miami Beats NY Red Bulls