Messi's Potential Return Sparks Anticipation for Inter Miami vs. Cavalier FC Clash
Lionel Messi might make a much-anticipated return on Thursday night when Inter Miami takes on Cavalier FC in the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup round-of-16 matchup. Although Messi is listed as a substitute, it’s uncertain if he will actually play, despite traveling with the team. Following a hiatus from Inter Miami’s last three games due to fatigue, Messi could be a crucial presence against the determined Jamaican Premier League champions at Kingston’s National Stadium. With Inter Miami leading the series 2-0 on aggregate, fans are hopeful for his appearance.
Messi and the Inter Miami squad received a warm welcome upon their arrival in Jamaica on Wednesday evening. Greeted by Minister Olivia Grange, Messi even graced the covers of the Jamaica Observer. He was photographed receiving a Bob Marley t-shirt from Grange, adding to the excitement of his presence on the island. In his first possession, Messi immediately made his mark by taking a shot, even though it went wide. Entering the game in the 53rd minute off the bench, Messi’s debut in Jamaica included receiving the captain’s armband from Sergio Busquets after replacing Luis Suarez.
Luis Suarez earlier converted a penalty in the 37th minute, significantly bolstering Inter Miami’s aggregate lead. This opportunity arose when Cavalier defender Christopher Ainsworth committed a foul, leading to Tadeo Allende being tripped in the penalty area. The match is accessible to international fans on FS2, TUDN, and ViX, with kick-off scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. in Jamaica, 9 p.m. in Argentina). Messi’s participation remains uncertain, though his inclusion as a substitute adds intrigue.
Messi had been expected to return last Sunday against Charlotte FC. However, following the ejection of goalkeeper Oscar Ustari and the necessity to substitute midfield strength for backup goalie Rocco Ríos Novo, coach Mascherano chose to bench Messi to avoid playing a man down. Messi also skipped Inter Miami’s 4-1 triumph over Houston Dynamo and the initial leg against Cavalier FC.
After competing heavily in earlier matches this year, Messi is set for a possible resurgence. Upon returning from Jamaica, Inter Miami faces Atlanta United in a rematch this Sunday—a team that previously ousted them in last season’s MLS Cup playoffs opener. This match precedes the FIFA international window where Messi will rejoin Argentina to face Uruguay and Brazil in World Cup qualifiers. Inter Miami concludes March hosting the Philadelphia Union. Success against Cavalier FC would see them advance to face LAFC in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals, kicking off in early April.