Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami Against CF Montreal in MLS Clash – Live Updates
July 5, 2025 – Lionel Messi and Inter Miami return to Major League Soccer action tonight, facing CF Montreal on the road at Stade Saputo. The match marks Inter Miami’s first game since their elimination from the FIFA Club World Cup, with Messi confirmed in the starting lineup.
Match Preview
Inter Miami resumes their MLS campaign after a 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup on June 29. Despite the short turnaround, Messi is fit and ready to play, as confirmed by head coach Javier Mascherano.
Before the Club World Cup break, Inter Miami was tied for third in the Eastern Conference (29 points) but has since dropped to seventh due to games in hand. Montreal, meanwhile, sits at the bottom of the conference with just 14 points.
Live Match Updates
CF Montreal 1, Inter Miami 0 – Early Mistake Costs Miami
- 2’ – GOAL (Montreal): Messi’s misplaced pass is intercepted by Prince Owusu, who scores to give Montreal an early lead.
- 15’ – Close Chance for Miami: Jordi Alba hits the post after a brilliant setup by Sergio Busquets. Messi’s follow-up shot is also denied.
How to Watch
- Streaming: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m. ET (8:30 p.m. Argentina time)
Confirmed: Messi Starting
The Argentine superstar is in the lineup, marking his first MLS appearance since the Club World Cup exit.
Inter Miami’s Packed July Schedule
The Herons face a grueling stretch of seven matches in 25 days:
- July 5 – @ CF Montreal
- July 9 – @ New England Revolution
- July 12 – vs. Nashville SC
- July 16 – @ FC Cincinnati
- July 19 – @ New York Red Bulls
- July 26 – vs. FC Cincinnati
- July 30 – vs. Atlas (Leagues Cup)
Betting Odds (via BetMGM)
- CF Montreal Win: +230
- Draw: +300
- Inter Miami Win: -110
- Over/Under: 3.5 goals
Key Storylines
- Can Messi inspire a turnaround after Miami’s recent struggles?
- Will Montreal capitalize on their underdog status?
- How will Inter Miami manage squad fatigue during this busy stretch?