Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has been ruled out for Inter Miami's crucial Leagues Cup knockout match against reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew on Tuesday, according to Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino. Messi has been sidelined due to a right ankle injury sustained a month ago during Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final.

Since the injury, Messi has not trained with his Miami teammates and has recently shed a walking boot, but his recovery is still ongoing. His absence will be felt as Miami seeks to defend their Leagues Cup title, a tournament involving both MLS and Liga MX clubs. Messi was instrumental in helping Miami secure last year’s inaugural Leagues Cup championship.

The match between Columbus Crew, last year's MLS champions, and Miami, currently leading the league table, is one of eight knockout matches scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. These matches will determine the quarter-final pairings, set for Friday and Saturday.

The round of 16 begins with the Seattle Sounders facing Mexico's Pumas, a rematch of the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League final. Other notable matchups include Philadelphia vs. Cincinnati, Cruz Azul against Mazatlan, Tigres vs. New York City FC, Toluca at Colorado, Club America at St. Louis, and San Jose taking on Los Angeles FC.