match recap
inter miami 3-1 lafc
By Richard Morales Apr 9, 2025
Messi and Jordi Alba Celebrating Champions Cup Photography : @Intermiamifc
Inter Miami Stuns LAFC to Reach Champions Cup Semifinals
Date: April 9, 2025
Competition: CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarterfinal (Second Leg)
Venue: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale
Final Score: Inter Miami 3 – 1 LAFC
Aggregate: Inter Miami advances 3–2 on aggregate
Early Strike Puts LAFC in Control
LAFC entered the second leg with a 1-0 lead from the first leg.
In the 9th minute, Aaron Long scored off a rebound, doubling LAFC’s aggregate lead to 2-0.
At that point, Miami needed three unanswered goals to advance.
Aaron Long Celebration Photography: @Intermiami
Messi Ignites the Comeback
35th Minute: Lionel Messi unleashed a left-footed rocket from the top of the box to level the match at 1-1 (2-1 LAFC on aggregate).
His goal energized Inter Miami and the home crowd.
Momentum Shifts in Second Half
61st Minute: Noah Allen’s chipped ball floated over LAFC keeper Hugo Lloris, sneaking in for a 2-1 Miami lead. The aggregate score tied 2-2, with LAFC still ahead on away goals.
Inter Miami kept pressing, sensing LAFC’s fatigue and vulnerability.
Penalty Seals It for Miami
84th Minute: A handball in the LAFC box led to a penalty.
Messi stepped up and calmly converted, making it 3-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate.
With no away goal rule in effect in the Champions Cup semifinals, that third goal sealed the comeback.
Messi Celebrating Goal Photography @Intermiami
Miami's Defense Closes It Out
Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made crucial saves late in the match.
Miami’s backline, led by Sergio Busquets, held firm to fend off LAFC’s last-ditch efforts.
Post-Match Quotes
Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami Manager):
“Messi showed why he’s the best. We believed, and he delivered.”Lionel Messi:
“We knew what we had to do. We stayed calm, and the goals came at the right time.”
What’s Next?
Inter Miami will face Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals.
LAFC, after a strong start in the tournament, now turns its attention back to MLS play.
LAFC celebrating first goal Photography: @lafc