This article was originally published on www.si.com as Inter Miami 2–2 Necaxa: Takeaways as De Paul Steps Up for Missing Messi. Inter Miami picked up two of a possible three points on Saturday night with a shootout win after a 2–2 draw through 90 minutes against Liga MX’s Necaxa in both teams’ second match of the 2025 Leagues Cup.

Rodrigo De Paul has enjoyed years of playing alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina's national team, but the star midfielder said that for a long time, he's dreamed of playing on the same club with his good friend.

De Paul’s arrival is yet another sign that Inter Miami is building a serious project around Messi, one based on personal bonds and on-field chemistry. As a key player for Argentina, De Paul adds experience, quality, and a deep connection to the club’s now clearly Argentine identity.