Messi’s Magic Propels Inter Miami to Semifinals
In a thrilling night of soccer, Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano couldn’t help but sing the praises of Lionel Messi after the team’s stunning 3-1 comeback victory against LAFC in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal series. The captain’s defining goal was the highlight of the match, securing Inter Miami’s place in the next round.
LAFC came into the game with a 1-0 lead and quickly extended their advantage by scoring in the ninth minute. However, the magic of Messi, along with a crucial goal from defender Noah Allen, turned the tide in favor of Inter Miami.
After the game, Mascherano was effusive in his praise for Messi, saying, “Messi is the soul of this team. Sometimes I feel uncomfortable talking about him because I’ve known him for 20 years now, and I have to help him in this stage of his career.”
He continued, “He’s a guy who has everything in football. He’s the greatest in history, and he’s still making the path and guiding the new generations beyond having won everything until the last day he plays on the pitch. He wants to win and will do the impossible. Football is just about wanting, but you have to be able. And he has that ability because he is the greatest of all.”
Messi’s influence was felt both on and off the field. His teammate, Luis Suárez, shared how the team captain’s advice helped them stay focused. “Leo told us during the game, and Jordi told us that even if the other team scored, we needed to remain calm,” Suarez said.
He added, “The possibilities would be the same, we needed to score three goals to win. With the experience, hierarchy and players that we have, we did it.”
In a moment that will be remembered by Inter Miami fans, Messi scored a penalty in the 84th minute, making history for the team by securing a spot in the semifinals of the international tournament. This victory was especially sweet as the team had previously fallen to CF Monterrey in 2024 during the quarterfinal stage.
On the other side, LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo acknowledged the challenge of containing Messi. “Look, you’re talking about one of the greatest to ever play this sport. And from my liking, the second half, you had a little too much freedom,” Cherundolo said.
He elaborated, “We couldn’t get enough pressure on him. I thought in the first leg we did an excellent job. In the second, I think it was a little too much freedom. We couldn’t get enough pressure on the ball, and you know he’s going to punish you as well as his teammates. I think that’s part of what makes him so good. He makes his teammates better.”
With this victory, Inter Miami is now gearing up to face the Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup. The anticipation is building as fans eagerly await to see if Messi can continue to lead his team to glory.
- Inter Miami’s comeback win was marked by Messi’s leadership and skill.
- LAFC struggled to contain Messi, especially in the second half.
- Inter Miami will face Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Messi and Inter Miami to see if they can continue their winning streak and perhaps even clinch the title. With Messi at the helm, anything seems possible.
Originally Written by: Lizzy Becherano
