Lionel Messi once again proved why he’s one of the greatest in soccer history, delivering a masterful performance to lead Inter Miami CF to a stunning 3-1 comeback victory over LAFC in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals. With this result, Miami advanced to the semifinals with an aggregate score of 3-2.
Chase Stadium, packed with fans on a dramatic Wednesday night, was silenced early as Aaron Long scored for LAFC in the ninth minute, putting Miami in a tough position, as the team from California won the first leg and Inter had to score three times, but of course, with Messi on the pitch everything is possible.
Lio tried to level the game with a quickly executed free kick, but referee disallowed it, ruling that Messi had not waited for his signal. However, the Argentine star remained undeterred and equalized in the 35th minute with a spectacular curling shot into the top-left corner, bringing Miami back into contention.
A perfect ending to a memorable night
Miami carried their momentum into the second half, with Noah Allen scoring in the 61st minute to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. Though Luis Suárez appeared to seal the deal with a powerful header in the 67th minute, the goal was overturned by VAR. The tension peaked when Messi converted a penalty in the 83rd minute following a handball decision confirmed by VAR, securing Miami’s victory in a historic night in Florida.
Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari was instrumental in maintaining Miami’s advantage, making critical saves on two dangerous attempts from LAFC’s Denis Bouanga. The victory was particularly sweet for Miami, who had suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first leg at LAFC’s home ground, courtesy of a goal from Nathan Ordaz.
Inter Miami will now get ready for the semifinal of a very important tournament on the road to more international achievements. Messi’s brilliance, combined with Miami’s resilience, continues to captivate fans, and the team looks poised for further success in this tournament.
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