Inter Miami Champions Cup match: Magic Messi can't play in cold so the match is shockingly postponed 2025

Inter Miami Champions Cup match, Inter Miami is set to face Sporting Kansas City in the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16, but all eyes are on Lionel Messi, who is reportedly reluctant to play due to extreme weather conditions. The temperature in Kansas City is expected to plummet to -15°C (-25°C real feel), with heavy snowfall making playing conditions extremely difficult.

According to reports from American media, Messi is considering skipping the first leg of the knockout clash, citing concerns over the harsh weather. Additionally, Inter Miami is reportedly lobbying for the game to be postponed to avoid unnecessary risks for players.

This situation has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts. While some argue that professional players must adapt to all conditions, others believe that Messi’s decision is justified given the extreme temperatures and potential injury risks.

Inter Miami Champions Cup match, Lionel Messi Refuses to Play in -15°C Cold as Inter Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup Match Faces Weather Disruption

CONCACAF Champions Cup Clash Delayed Due to Heavy Snowstorm

The extreme weather in Kansas City has not only impacted Messi’s availability but has also forced CONCACAF to officially postpone the match by 24 hours.

CONCACAF’s Official Statement on the Postponement

“The first leg match of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One series between Sporting Kansas City and Inter Miami CF has been rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions expected to impact the Kansas City metropolitan area in the next 24 hours, including significant snow accumulation.”

The US National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning, with up to 10 inches of snowfall expected. CONCACAF clarified that the decision was made in coordination with both clubs and local authorities to ensure player and fan safety.

The match, originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 20, will now be played on Wednesday, February 21. The second leg is set for February 25 at Miami’s Chase Stadium, with the winners advancing to face Jamaica’s Cavalier SC in the Round of 16.

Messi’s History with Cold Weather Games: A Factor in His Decision?

While Messi has played in cold conditions before, he has rarely encountered sub-zero temperatures like those in Kansas City. The Argentine superstar is more accustomed to playing in warm climates, having spent most of his career in Barcelona, Paris, and now Miami.

Messi’s discomfort in freezing weather was previously evident during his time at Paris Saint-Germain, where he often struggled in winter games. Now at 37, Messi may be more cautious about playing in extreme conditions, prioritizing his fitness and longevity.

Furthermore, Inter Miami’s MLS campaign kicks off soon, and avoiding injuries in non-league fixtures might be a strategic decision for both Messi and his club.

How Will Messi’s Absence Impact Inter Miami?

If Messi does not play, Inter Miami will need to rely on their other key stars, including Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The team, coached by Javier Mascherano, has shown signs of promise, but Messi’s absence could be a significant setback.

Potential Starting XI Without Messi:

Goalkeeper: Drake Callender
Defenders: Jordi Alba, Sergii Kryvtsov, Tomás Avilés, DeAndre Yedlin
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Benjamin Cremaschi, Julian Gressel
Forwards: Luis Suárez, Leonardo Campana, Robert Taylor

With Suárez struggling for goals in preseason, Inter Miami will need to step up offensively to compensate for Messi’s potential absence.

Fan Reactions: Mixed Opinions on Messi’s Decision

Messi’s potential absence has sparked mixed reactions from fans and analysts:

🗣 Supporters of Messi’s Decision:

“Health and safety come first. No player should be forced to play in -15°C temperatures!”
“Messi has nothing left to prove. At his age, he needs to be careful with injuries.”

😡 Critics of Messi’s Decision:

“Footballers are paid millions to play, regardless of weather conditions!”
“Legends like Ronaldo or Zlatan would never sit out because of the cold.”

Despite the divided opinions, Messi’s well-being and the extreme weather risks remain the primary concerns.

Conclusion: Messi’s Decision Sparks Debate, but Safety Comes First

The Messi vs Cold Weather debate will likely continue, but one thing is clear—player safety is a top priority. While some fans criticize Messi for potentially skipping the game, others understand his concerns about playing in -15°C temperatures.

With the match postponed, all eyes are on whether Messi will ultimately decide to play. Regardless of his choice, Inter Miami will need to adapt quickly as they pursue success in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Match Update ‼️

Our Concacaf Champions Cup first leg match vs. Sporting KC has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 8 PM ET.

Read more here: https://t.co/1vZHoumwkj pic.twitter.com/bnXKFkAVer

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) February 17, 2025

FAQs: Messi and the Sporting Kansas City vs Inter Miami Match

1. Why is Messi refusing to play against Sporting Kansas City?

Messi is reportedly unwilling to play due to extreme cold (-15°C with a real feel of -25°C). The weather conditions present a high risk of injury and discomfort.

2. Has the match been postponed?

Yes, the match has been rescheduled for February 21 due to a severe winter storm and heavy snowfall in Kansas City.

3. Will Messi play in the second leg in Miami?

If healthy, Messi is expected to feature in the second leg on February 25 at Chase Stadium in Miami, where temperatures will be much warmer.

4. How will Messi’s absence affect Inter Miami?

Without Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba will need to step up. The team may struggle offensively, as Messi is their primary playmaker.

5. Is Messi known for avoiding cold weather games?

Messi has played in cold conditions before but has struggled in extreme winter weather. During his time at PSG, he had difficulty adjusting to freezing European winters.

Will Messi brave the cold, or will he sit this one out? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! ❄️⚽

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