Messi inspires Inter Miami comeback to reach Concacaf Champions Cup semi-finals

Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami overturned a 2-0 aggregate deficit to beat Los Angeles FC 3-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate, securing a dramatic place in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup on 10 April 2025 at Chase Stadium.

After losing the first leg 1-0, Miami were in deeper trouble just nine minutes into the return leg when Aaron Long gave LAFC the lead, extending their aggregate advantage to 2-0.

Messi pulled one back in the 35th minute with a sublime strike from outside the box, giving the home side hope and shifting the momentum in their favour. Despite the goal, Javier Mascherano's side still required two more to progress.

Their second came in unusual fashion. In the 53rd minute, Noah Allen floated a ball into the box which sailed through untouched by both Miami midfielder Federico Redondo and LAFC keeper Hugo Lloris, finding its way into the net. Though credited to Allen, it appeared to be more a fortunate deflection than a deliberate finish.

Inter Miami thought they had completed the comeback when Luis Suárez headed in a cross from Messi, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

However, the breakthrough came in the 84th minute when Miami appealed for handball in a crowded penalty area. A VAR review confirmed that LAFC defender Marlon had handled the ball, awarding the hosts a penalty. Messi stepped up and calmly slotted the spot-kick into the corner to put Miami ahead 3-2 on aggregate.

LAFC mounted a desperate late charge in search of a leveller, with Denis Bouanga twice testing Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari and Ryan Hollingshead forcing another fine save with a powerful header. But Inter Miami held on to complete a famous comeback and book their spot in the last four.