Javier Mascherano spoke about Lionel Messi ahead of Inter Miami’s game against DC United in Major League Soccer.

Despite not having their talisman Lionel Messi for the match, Inter Miami were able to get past Tigres 2-1, advancing to the semifinals of the Leagues Cup behind Luis Suarez burying two penalties to win the match.

Inter Miami make a trip to the American capital to take on D.C. United as the Herons look to surge up the MLS Eastern Conference standings.

Messi was already ruled out of Wednesday’s Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres UANL, where Inter Miami pulled off a 2-1 victory at Chase Stadium. But during the match, the team suffered another blow as a key veteran picked up an injury, leaving Javier Mascherano with more problems to solve.

Cristiano Ronaldo has extended his contract with Al Nassr through 2027. How does that compare to Lionel Messi’s deal with Inter Miami? Nearly two months ago, Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr announced a contract extension that will keep the Portuguese star with the Saudi club through 2027.

Miami also currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference, but will be missing Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba through injury as they look to gain ground on conference leaders FC Cincinnati and the Philadelphia Union, as well as Nashville SC and the Columbus Crew .

Inter Miami will host the LA Galaxy at Chase Stadium on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET/ 4:30 p.m. PT. Inter Miami is 6th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 12–5–6 (points 42) and Galaxy is at the bottom of the Western Conference with a record of 3–15–7 heading into the weekend.