2025 Leagues One Cup Match Preview: Inter Miami FC vs. Tigres UNAL

Team Form & Storylines

Inter Miami CF

Phase One Record: 2W–0L–1D (8 points, +3 GD)

Key Absence: Lionel Messi (hamstring – day-to-day)

Recent Form: 3–1 win vs. LA Galaxy (MLS), 3–1 win vs. Pumas (Leagues Cup)

Despite Messi’s limited availability, Inter Miami has surged behind Rodrigo De Paul, who has seamlessly integrated into the midfield with 1 goal and 2 assists. Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende have also stepped up, while Jordi Alba and Telasco Segovia continue to anchor the back line. Under Javier Mascherano, the Herons are unbeaten in their last 10 home matches across all competitions.

Tigres UANL

Phase One Record: 2W–1L–0D (6 points, +3 GD)

Recent Form: 2–1 loss vs. LAFC, 4–1 win vs. Houston, 2–1 win vs. San Diego

Tigres arrive with firepower, led by Ángel Correa, who has netted 4 goals in the tournament and shares the Golden Boot lead. Juan Brunetta has been the creative engine, with a tournament-best 3 assists. Tigres are the only “Big 5” Liga MX club to reach the knockout stage and will be looking to avenge their 2023 Round of 16 exit.

Head-to-Head History

Last Meeting: Tigres defeated Inter Miami 2–1 in the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage

All-Time Record: Tigres lead 1–0

Key Matchups

Player	Team	Role/Impact
Rodrigo De Paul	Inter Miami	Midfield maestro, 1g/2a in LC play
Ángel Correa	Tigres	Golden Boot contender, 4 goals
Luis Suárez	Inter Miami	Veteran striker, 2 goals in last 3
Juan Brunetta	Tigres	Playmaker, 3 assists
Jordi Alba	Inter Miami	Defensive anchor, 1 assist vs Galaxy

Tactical Overview

Inter Miami: Possession-heavy, fluid midfield, aggressive wing play

Tigres: Direct attacking style, high press, lethal in transition

X-Factor: Messi’s availability could tilt the balance. Even limited minutes off the bench could be decisive.