WATCH: Lionel Messi brace sends Inter Miami to CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals
Inter Miami CF secured a 3-1 victory over Los Angeles FC in the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals series on Wednesday, advancing 3-2 on aggregate.
The dramatic win at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, saw Lionel Messi play a pivotal role, scoring twice and providing an assist to propel the Herons into the semifinals.
LAFC took an early lead in the 9th minute, with Aaron Long scoring a right-footed finish from the centre of the box following a corner kick. However, Messi equalised for Miami in the 35th minute, converting a left-footed shot into the top right corner from the edge of the box.
In the 61st minute, Noah Allen's strike gave Inter Miami the lead, levelling the aggregate score at 2-2.
Messi completed his brace in the 84th minute, converting a penalty to seal the comeback and send Miami into the next round.
Inter Miami goalkeeper Óscar Ustari played a key role in the closing moments, recording seven saves to help secure the win. The victory marked the club's first-ever semifinal appearance in the tournament.
Inter Miami CF has now won all three of its home Concacaf Champions Cup matches against MLS opposition, advancing in each tie. Aaron Long became the first defender to score two goals for an MLS team in the Concacaf Champions Cup since Alexander Callens for New York City FC in 2019.
Messi has been involved in at least one goal in 18 of his 19 home appearances for Inter Miami in all competitions since 2024, recording 34 goal involvements (21 goals, 13 assists).
Messi has now contributed to multiple goals in a match during the knockout rounds of a continental championship (UEFA Champions League & Concacaf Champions Cup) 18 times, with his team winning each of those games.
Inter Miami will now face the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the next round, as they continue their pursuit of a historic third trophy. With Messi leading the charge, the Herons are poised to challenge for further silverware in 2025.
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