Messi Ruled Out for Inter Miami's Leagues Cup Knockout Match Against Columbus

Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino announced on Monday that Argentine star Lionel Messi will not play in the defending champions' Leagues Cup knockout match on Tuesday against reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew.

Messi has been sidelined since suffering a right ankle injury a month ago during Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. He has not yet participated in training with his Miami teammates since he was removed from a walking boot.

The Leagues Cup features a tournament between MLS and Liga MX clubs, with Messi instrumental in securing Miami's inaugural title last year. The upcoming match pits the Columbus Crew, last year's MLS champions, against Inter Miami, currently the top team in the league standings.

This matchup is part of a series of eight matches taking place on Monday and Tuesday, which will determine the quarter-final pairings set for Friday and Saturday. The round of 16 kicks off on Monday with the Seattle Sounders hosting Mexico's Pumas, who were defeated by Seattle in the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League final.

Additional knockout matches on Tuesday include Philadelphia at Cincinnati, Cruz Azul facing Mazatlan, Tigres taking on New York City, Toluca visiting Colorado, Club America playing at St. Louis, and San Jose against Los Angeles FC.