Inter Miami Balances MLS and Concacaf Champions Cup Priorities
Inter Miami rotated key players, including possibly sidelining Messi, during their MLS Week 7 matchup with Toronto FC as they geared up for an important Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal against LAFC.
Published on April 7, 2025
On April 7, 2025, Inter Miami faced Toronto FC in MLS Week 7 while preparing for a key Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal against LAFC. With Toronto struggling near the bottom of the conference, head coach Javier Mascherano opted to rotate key players, including Lionel Messi, to conserve energy for the upcoming continental clash. The decision regarding Messi’s participation was announced at kickoff at Chase Stadium.
This tactical approach not only aimed to secure important points in the MLS but also ensured that the team remained competitive on the international stage. The match was also broadcast across Latin America through TNT Sports and Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass, reflecting MLS's growing presence in the region as fans followed the evolving strategies of one of the league’s most star-studded teams.