Messi Magic Leads Inter Miami to Comeback Win Over LAFC in Champions Cup Clash

 

Inter Miami pulled off a dramatic 3-1 victory over LAFC in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals on April 9, 2025. The win sees them move on to the semifinals with a 3-2 score on aggregate after trailing from the first leg.

Here’s how it went down:

LAFC got off to a flying start when defender Aaron Long scored just nine minutes in, putting them 2-0 ahead over both legs. But Inter Miami wasn’t ready to give up.

Lionel Messi brought the game to life with a long-range strike in the 35th minute, cutting the gap and lifting the home crowd. Then in the second half, a misjudged cross from Noah Allen somehow found its way into the net in the 61st minute, tying the aggregate at 2-2.

The decisive moment came late in the match. After a handball in the box, Inter Miami was awarded a penalty—and Messi, cool as ever, stepped up and converted in the 84th minute to seal the win.

Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made some key stops in the dying minutes, ensuring Miami kept their lead intact. It was a night of big emotions, late drama, and classic Messi brilliance.

With the win, Inter Miami will now face either Pumas UNAM or Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals.