Lionel Messi Injury Update: Tata Martino’s Positive Reassurance Fuels Fan Hopes Ahead of Monterrey vs Inter Miami Clash

Inter Miami are a different proposition with and without Lionel Messi. It’s not a coincidence that all the Herons’ defeats this season came when the Argentine superstar was out injured. In fact, according to Tata Martino, “As long as Messi is on the field, Inter Miami can beat anyone in Concacaf.” But, on his return from injury against Colorado Rapids, the soccer icon played the entire 90 minutes. Hence, there are concerns about Messi’s physical condition ahead of tomorrow’s knockout clash. However, all is well per the Inter Miami boss.

In his latest presser, Tata Martino gave an update on his skipper, Lionel Messi. Martino said, “Messi felt good after playing 45 minutes. Apparently, the injury is behind him, The difference compared to the previous game will be due to our need. Let’s try to go out and look.” Perhaps this would explain Martino’s decision to let the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner play the entire 90 minutes. It also helped that Messi was imperious in the match.

In the 57th minute of the said game, Lionel Messi scored a great volley from the edge of the box to make it 1-1 against the Rapids. Previously, the Inter Miami captain was out due to an ‘overload‘ on his leg. Hence, the goal removed any concerns that Messi is yet to recover 100%. As such, Messi’s form and availability is great news for the Herons ahead of a crucial CONCACAF Champions Cup game. Monterrey leads the fixture 2-1 and aggregate and the Herons are banking on the Argentine wizard to inspire them to a victory. But ahead of the game, Monterrey’s boss has fired a warning to Messi & Co!

Lionel Messi should ‘worry’ assert Fernando Ortiz

In a recent press conference, Monterrey head coach Fernando Ortiz was asked if his team is planning any special tactics to negate Lionel Messi. Ortiz gave an ice-cold reply and said, “I’m going to go with a super defensive system… no, just kidding. I continue to repeat. We are Monterrey. We are at home with our fans. Messi should worry about us.” With Monterrey in the lead, they don’t need to force a result, unlike Inter Miami.

Read More: Lionel Messi Under Scrutiny for Sacrificing Inter Miami Games for Copa America Prep After Missing 4 Consecutive Matches

However, it must be said that the Herons did not have the rub of luck in the first tie. In fact, they took the lead in the 19th minute and controlled the proceedings. However, the game turned on its head in the 65th minute as David Ruiz received a red card. Monterrey capitalized on the numerical advantage and scored two goals in quick succession to win the game. Regardless, considering Lionel Messi’s absence and the red card, it was an impressive performance by Inter Miami and one they would need to replicate for tomorrow.

Read More: Monterrey Boss Opens Up on Alleged Confrontation With Lionel Messi Over Referee Bias Comments After Inter Miami’s Loss