Messi’s Triumphant Return: Inter Miami’s Victory in Jamaica
March 13, 2025, was a night to remember for soccer fans, especially those who have been eagerly awaiting the return of the legendary Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar made a spectacular comeback as Inter Miami secured a 2-0 win over Cavalier FC in Jamaica, advancing to the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Messi, who had been absent from the field since February 25, when Miami faced Sporting Kansas City, returned with a bang. His presence was felt immediately as he came off the bench in the second half, helping Miami to a 4-0 aggregate victory in the round-of-16 tie. The decision to rest Messi for three games was a strategic move by head coach Javier Mascherano, who emphasized the importance of load management to prevent future injuries.
The atmosphere at Kingston’s Independence Park was electric when Messi replaced Luis Suárez in the 53rd minute. The crowd erupted in cheers, welcoming the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to Jamaica for the first time. And Messi did not disappoint. He scored a goal just seconds before the final whistle, sending the ball into the opposite corner of the net with precision. The assist came from Inter Miami’s promising 18-year-old homegrown player, Santiago Morales, who made his MLS debut earlier this season.
Before the match, Mascherano had kept fans in suspense, confirming that Messi would travel with the team to Jamaica but not revealing whether he would play. After the game, Mascherano expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We knew that Leo wasn’t playing for the last three or four games. Obviously, we wanted him playing, but we need to know and to find the moment to send him to the pitch. I think it was good because he felt very good on the pitch. He could score. The people in Jamaica could see him. So great, great night for everyone.”
Messi’s first official match in the Caribbean was a highly anticipated event. Upon arrival at the airport, he and his Miami teammates were warmly welcomed by Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport. Cavalier FC, which usually plays in a 3,000-seat stadium, moved the Champions Cup match to the country’s national stadium, which has a capacity of 35,000, to accommodate the large crowd eager to see Messi in action.
Inter Miami entered the game with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg at home last week, thanks to goals from Tadeo Allende and Suárez. Miami quickly extended their lead in the first half of the second leg when they earned a penalty from a foul on Allende inside the box. Suárez confidently stepped up to the spot and sent the ball into the lower left corner of the net.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will now prepare to face LAFC in the quarterfinals of the Champions Cup. LAFC advanced after defeating the Columbus Crew in the round of 16. This upcoming clash promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to make their mark in the tournament.
- Messi’s return to action was a major highlight, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
- Inter Miami’s strategic rest for Messi paid off, as he returned in top form.
- The upcoming quarterfinal match against LAFC is highly anticipated.
As the soccer world continues to watch Messi’s journey with Inter Miami, one thing is certain: his presence on the field is as electrifying as ever, and fans can’t wait to see what he does next.
Originally Written by: Lizzy Becherano
