Erik Lira relaxed about facing Messi: “It’s just another game”

Cruz Azul will make their Leagues Cup debut against Inter Miami and star signing Lionel Messi on 21 July.

Mauricio TorresMaTorres22Andy HallUpdate: Jul 5th, 2023 12:36 EDT

Juan Luis Diaz

The 2023 Leagues Cup kicks off in just a few days’ time and without doubt, one of the most attractive games of the tournament is Cruz Azul’s clash with Inter Miami on 21 July. That’s the date when Lionel Messi could make his debut with the American side, which has prompted huge demand for tickets. But Cruz Azul midfielder Erik Lira, is taking it all in his stride – he says the team is motivated about taking on Miami without fear of facing one of the greatest players the world has ever seen.

“It’s a unique opportunity. It’s a new tournament, and we will have to fight to win, but the truth is it’s just another game for us. El Tuca [Ferretti] tells us that Messi is just another player – obviously he’s a bit imposing than that, but we’ll be going out to win the match,” Lira told reporters during a press conference.

🇺🇸 𝓗𝓪𝓹𝓹𝔂 𝓕𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓽𝓱 𝓸𝓯 𝓙𝓾𝓵𝔂! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/cx21FIfkjt

— Leagues Cup (@LeaguesCup) July 4, 2023