Both stars missed Inter Miami’s last match at D.C. United but could return for the Leagues Cup semifinal

• The Herons face Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semifinal
• A spot in the final is on the line in the Florida Derby
• Allen says Messi looks fresh

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba trained with the rest of the squad on Tuesday ahead of Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup semifinal against Orlando City, raising hopes they could be available after missing the weekend draw at D.C. United due to injuries.

  Still, assistant coach Javier Morales, standing in for the suspended Javier Mascherano, cautioned that their status is not guaranteed.

  “Jordi and Leo trained today; they did well, but we have to wait. With these kinds of injuries, you have to see how they feel later. Hopefully, we’ll be able to count on them,” Morales told reporters.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Messi has missed Miami’s last two games and played just 45 minutes across previous five fixtures. His absence in the nation's capital appeared to be precautionary, with the Argentine star aiming to be fit for Wednesday’s clash. 

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  WHAT NOAH ALLEN SAID

  Defender Noah Allen added optimism, noting he saw Messi and Luis Suárez practicing penalties.

  “He looks sharp. Messi is always hungry, like a 21-year-old kid, and he’ll want to play," he said. "He’s in good shape, and even when injured, he stays in the gym and keeps working hard."

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  In the Florida Derby, Orlando are unbeaten in their last two games against Miami. Overall, lead the series with seven wins, while have five victories and five draws.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News