Lionel Messi turned in another vintage performance as Inter Miami came from behind to beat LAFC 3-1 on Wednesday night at BMO Stadium, overturning a 2-0 aggregate deficit to reach the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals for the first time in club history.
⚽ Match Highlights:
- First Leg Result: LAFC 1-0 Inter Miami
- Second Leg Final Score: LAFC 1-3 Inter Miami
- Aggregate Score: 3-2 in favor of Inter Miami
🔥 Key Moments:
- 9’: Aaron Long’s early strike for LAFC gave them a commanding 2-0 aggregate lead, with the away goal looming large under Concacaf’s still-active away goals rule.
- 45’: Messi sparked the comeback, slotting home a stunning goal assisted by Luis Suárez, threading the ball between two defenders and past Hugo Lloris.
- 55’: Noah Allen leveled the aggregate score with a well-placed finish, giving Miami the edge on away goals.
- 73’: VAR awarded a penalty for handball by LAFC’s Marlon Santos. Messi calmly converted from the spot to complete the turnaround.
🗣️ “The Chinese issue is serious,” — well, not quite the quote here, but Messi’s performance certainly was. His brace, including the game-winner from the spot, was a reminder of why he’s still a game-changer on the world stage.
🧤 Heroic Goalkeeping:
Oscar Ustari was instrumental in the win, making 8 saves, including several crucial stops on Denis Bouanga, as LAFC peppered Miami with 21 total shots to Miami’s 13.
🏆 What’s Next:
- Inter Miami advances to face either Vancouver Whitecaps or Pumas UNAM in the semifinals later this month.
- They return to MLS play Sunday against the Chicago Fire.
- LAFC, whose Champions Cup dreams end in disappointment, refocuses on their MLS campaign, hosting San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday.
⚽ Historical Significance:
- This marks Inter Miami’s first-ever semifinal appearance in a Concacaf international competition, a major milestone under coach Javier Mascherano.
- For LAFC and coach Steve Cherundolo, the early exit is a tough blow, especially given their pedigree and expectations.
