Mumbai, July 6, 2025 – Football fans across India are buzzing with excitement as Lionel Messi, the Argentine legend, is confirmed to start for Inter Miami in their Major League Soccer (MLS) match against CF Montréal tonight. This game marks Inter Miami’s return to the MLS after their recent campaign in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they faced top global teams. The match will take place at Saputo Stadium in Montreal, Canada, at 7:30 PM ET (5:00 AM IST, July 7, 2025), and Indian fans can catch the action live on Apple TV.
Messi’s Return to MLS
After a thrilling run in the FIFA Club World Cup, where Inter Miami reached the Round of 16 before losing 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on June 29, Messi is back to lead his team in the MLS. The 38-year-old superstar played the full 90 minutes in all four Club World Cup matches, including a memorable free-kick goal against FC Porto. Despite concerns about his fitness due to the intense schedule, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, confirmed that Messi is fit and ready to play. “Yes, why not?” Mascherano said when asked if Messi would feature, dismissing any plans to rest the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Messi will be joined by his former FC Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in Inter Miami’s starting lineup. This quartet has been a driving force for the team, which currently sits seventh in the MLS Eastern Conference with 29 points (8 wins, 3 losses, 5 draws). The Herons, as Inter Miami is nicknamed, are eager to climb the standings after dropping from third to seventh during their Club World Cup participation.
The Challenge Against CF Montréal
CF Montréal, struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with only 14 points (3 wins, 12 losses, 5 draws), will face a tough test against Messi and his teammates. The two teams last met in Miami, where Messi scored twice and provided an assist in a 4-2 victory for Inter Miami. Montréal’s home record is poor, with just one win in nine matches this season, making Inter Miami the favorites to secure three crucial points.
Messi’s Form and Impact
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever, has been in sensational form in the MLS this season, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in 13 matches. His performance in the Club World Cup, including a historic goal that helped Inter Miami become the first MLS team to defeat a European side (FC Porto), has further cemented his legacy. Indian fans, who have followed Messi’s journey from his Barcelona days to his World Cup triumph with Argentina in 2022, are eager to see him weave his magic on the pitch.
Why This Match Matters
For Inter Miami, this game is a chance to regain momentum in the MLS after their Club World Cup exit. Coach Mascherano praised the team’s performance in the global tournament, saying, “The team exceeded expectations, and now we’re focused on the MLS.” With a busy schedule ahead, including seven matches in the next 25 days, a strong start against Montréal is crucial.
For Indian football fans, this is an opportunity to watch their idol, often called the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time), in action. Messi’s presence has boosted the MLS’s popularity in India, where football is gaining ground alongside cricket. His ability to dribble past defenders, score stunning goals, and create chances for teammates continues to inspire young players across the country.
How to Watch in India
The match will be broadcast live on Apple TV, accessible through the MLS Season Pass. Fans can also follow live updates on social media platforms like X, where posts from accounts like @kaufsports and @TouchlineX have been hyping up Messi’s return. For those waking up early, the 5:00 AM IST kickoff is a small price to pay to watch the Argentine maestro.
A Message to Indian Fans
Messi’s journey with Inter Miami is a reminder of his enduring passion for the game. As he takes the field against CF Montréal, Indian fans can expect a masterclass from the man who has won hearts worldwide. Whether you’re watching from Mumbai, Delhi, or Kolkata, this is a chance to witness history in the making.
Last Updated on: Sunday, July 6, 2025 11:49 am by Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu | Published by: Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu on Sunday, July 6, 2025 11:49 am | News Categories: News, Sports, Trending
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