Which teams could Messi and Inter Miami face in Leagues Cup round of 32?

The arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has changed the outlook for the team -- he brought Beats as well as goals and optimism -- at least in the Leagues Cup, as the team led by Gerardo el ‘Tata’ Martino won its opening two group games against Cruz Azul and Atlanta United. Now eyes turn to the next test.

Who next for Inter Miami in Leagues Cup?

Although we still have the final game of the South Group 3, Miami are assured of a place in the knockout phase. Cruz Azul and Atlanta United now face off to determine who the second-placed team is.

For Messi, Busquets and Jordi Alba (who is expected to make his debut in the round of 32) the next opponent will come from the group featuring Houston Dynamo, Orlando City and Santos. Going into the final game in that group (South 2) both Houston and Orlando have a win each, both needing penalties in their respective game after it finished level.

Santos and Orlando City now go head-to-head and a win for the Purple Lions would see us with a Florida clásico against the Herons.

Josef Martínez “would like” Orlando next

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Venezuelan striker Josef Martínez was excited about the possible matchup against Orlando City, assuring that it is something he would like to do.

Martinez also had some pretty high praise for his team’s new midfielder from Barcelona.

“I think he is a genius. I prefer Busquets than Messi,” he joked. “He is fucking amazing. He is very smart.”