Lionel Messi is a game-time decision for U.S. Open Cup Final

09/26/2023 05:53 PM

Lionel Messi’s status for Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup Final is not officially determined with Inter Miami set to place for its second trophy in recent months.

Messi will be a game-time decision for Wednesday’s showdown with the Houston Dynamo, Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino said Tuesday. Messi has missed the last three matches for the Herons due to an old scar tissue issue that has resurfaced in recent days.

The Argentina superstar already led Inter Miami to the Leagues Cup title earlier this summer, but could be forced to watch Wednesday’s Open Cup Final on the sidelines.

“In this case, we sit with him asking how he feels,” Martino said Tuesday. “Maybe other players, one makes a decision, but here we will make a decision we are in agreement over. Here, there are questions. The player, the [U.S. Open Cup] final, and what comes after. These three scenarios have to be evaluated; it is not just about the next game. Risk is always there, but we try to decrease the margin of risk.

“If it wasn’t a final, we wouldn’t take any risk, but because it is a final, there is a chance we take that risk,” Martino added.

Messi has scored one goal and added two assists in four MLS matches to date. The 2022 World Cup winner scored 10 goals during the Leagues Cup this summer as the Herons defeated Nashville SC on penalty kicks to capture a first trophy in club history.

Fellow veteran teammate Jordi Alba is doubtful for Wednesday’s match, which could also leave a major hole defensive in Martino’s squad.

The Houston Dynamo visit DRV PNK Stadium on Wednesday, seeking a second U.S. Open Cup title in club history.