Juan Pablo Vigon scored in the 84th minute to secure a 2-1 victory for Tigres over Lionel Messi-less defending champion Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup on Saturday.
The 33-year-old Mexican midfielder’s goal gave Tigres, the eight-time Liga MX champions, the win at Houston and the top spot in group play.
The World Cup-style tournament features MLS and Liga MX teams in three-team groups, with two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stages.
With this loss, Inter Miami finished second in the group and may face a first-round knockout match against Pachuca, the reigning CONCACAF Champions Cup champions.
Lionel Messi did not play for Miami due to a right ankle ligament injury sustained in the Copa America final against Colombia last month.
Tigres took the lead in the 36th minute with a goal from Argentine striker Juan Brunetta. Miami equalized in the 74th minute with a goal from Ecuadorian forward Leo Campana, setting up Vigon’s decisive late goal.
