Messi Helps Miami Beat LAFC and Reach Champions Cup Semi-Finals

Lionel Messi once again proved why he’s regarded as one of football’s all-time greats, leading Inter Miami to a dramatic 3-1 victory over Los Angeles FC on Wednesday night and securing a place in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Miami overturned a 1-0 first-leg deficit with a commanding second-leg performance, winning 3-2 on aggregate.

The 37-year-old Argentine scored twice, including the decisive penalty in the 84th minute, as Miami clawed their way back from a potentially fatal early setback.

LAFC appeared to tighten their grip on the tie just nine minutes into the match when Aaron Long scored, putting the visitors 2-0 up on aggregate.

With the away goals rule in effect, Inter Miami needed three goals to advance—a daunting challenge that only seemed to fuel their resolve.

Messi began the comeback in the 35th minute, combining with longtime teammate Luis Suárez to curl a precise shot into the far corner, igniting the home crowd at Chase Stadium.

Early in the second half, Miami took the lead when a cross from Noah Allen found its way into the net, untouched by either Federico Redondo or LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The fluke goal leveled the tie on aggregate but still left Miami trailing on away goals.

They thought they had sealed the comeback when Suárez converted a Messi cross, but the goal was ruled offside.

The breakthrough came in the 82nd minute when LAFC defender Marlon was penalized for a handball in the box. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty.

Messi, with trademark composure, stepped up and converted, giving Miami the 3-2 aggregate lead and sending the stadium into a frenzy.

After the final whistle, head coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s enduring impact.

“He’s the soul of the team,” Mascherano said. “The greatest in history, and still showing how to compete at the highest level. He’ll always do the impossible to win.”

While acknowledging his side’s errors, Mascherano commended their fighting spirit: “We still have a lot to work on, but this is the way—fighting to the end and leaving everything on the field.”

LAFC manager Steve Cherundolo reflected on missed opportunities.

“We had the chances to put the game to bed but didn’t capitalize,” he said. “It became chaotic and emotional in the second half.”

Inter Miami’s win books them a spot in the final four of the tournament, continuing what has become a dream run for the Florida club.

With Messi leading the charge, their ambitions of continental glory remain very much alive.