Lionel Messi scored twice to lead Inter Miami to a dramatic 3-1 win over Los Angeles FC, securing a 3-2 aggregate victory and a spot in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Wednesday.
The Argentine World Cup winner was once again the hero, converting a crucial penalty with six minutes remaining to complete the comeback. Despite being 2-0 down on aggregate, Miami showed resilience, and Messi’s decisive performance was a testament to his continued passion and ability at 37. In the final minutes of stoppage time, Messi was still chasing down opponents and putting in challenges as Miami held on for the victory.
Javier Mascherano, Messi’s former teammate at Barcelona and Argentina, hailed him as the “soul” of the team, emphasizing his competitive spirit and ability to inspire even after achieving everything in the game.
Miami, trailing 1-0 from the first leg in California, found themselves in further trouble when Aaron Long gave LAFC the lead in the ninth minute. With the away goals rule still in effect, Miami needed three goals to stay in the competition. Messi responded quickly, netting a stunning goal in the 35th minute after a neat one-two with Luis Suarez, but Miami still needed two more goals.
The team pulled ahead 2-1 on the night after a scrappy goal from Noah Allen in the second half, but a disallowed header from Suarez left them needing one more. That crucial goal came when a VAR review awarded Miami a penalty after a handball by Marlon in the box. Messi stepped up and calmly converted in the 84th minute, completing the comeback.
LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo acknowledged his team’s failure to capitalize on their chances, while Mascherano praised Miami’s fighting spirit. “We have a lot to improve, but this is the way to play football,” he said. “We gave everything, 100%, until the end.”
AFP
