Video: Messi Masterclass Guides Inter Miami to CONCACAF Semis
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, led Inter Miami to a thrilling comeback victory over LAFC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 quarterfinals. The Argentine legend scored twice, showcasing his incredible dribbling skills, to guide the Herons to a memorable aggregate win.
In the first leg, LAFC had taken an early lead, leaving Miami with a mountain to climb in the return fixture. However, Messi and his teammates were not deterred, and they put in a strong performance at Chase Stadium to overturn the deficit.
The match began with both teams creating chances, but it was LAFC who came closest to scoring in the early stages. Their pressure eventually paid off when they took the lead through a well-worked goal in the 25th minute. Miami struggled to find their footing, and it seemed as though their Champions Cup dreams were slipping away.
But Messi, as he has done countless times throughout his illustrious career, refused to give up. He inspired his teammates with his tireless work rate and vision on the pitch, and it was only a matter of time before he made his mark.
The turning point came in the 55th minute when Messi received a pass on the edge of the box and proceeded to dribble past three LAFC defenders with ease. He released the ball with precision, allowing his teammate to tap it in and reduce the deficit to 1-0. The crowd erupted in cheers as Messi celebrated his goal, knowing that it had given his team a lifeline.
The momentum had shifted in favor of Miami, and they began to push for an equalizer. Their pressure eventually told in the 75th minute when Messi scored his second goal of the night. This time, he beat two defenders with his quick feet before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
The goal sent the Chase Stadium crowd into raptures, and it marked the turning point in the match. Miami continued to push for a winner, and although they couldn’t find it, they had already done enough to secure their place in the semi-finals.
The aggregate score ended 2-1 in favor of Miami, with Messi’s two goals proving to be the difference. His performance was a masterclass in vision, skill, and determination, and it will be remembered for a long time to come.
Miami will now face the winner of the quarterfinal between Cruz Azul and Sporting Kansas City in the semi-finals. The Herons will be looking to build on their momentum and make a deep run in the competition.
Messi’s achievement is a testament to his enduring quality and his ability to inspire those around him. At 35 years old, he continues to defy the odds and push the boundaries of what is possible on the football pitch.
As Inter Miami’s captain, Messi has been instrumental in the team’s growth and development. His presence has attracted top talent to the club, and his influence on the pitch has been instrumental in their success.
The CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 is one of the most prestigious competitions in North American football, and Miami’s progress to the semi-finals is a significant achievement. With Messi leading the charge, the Herons will be confident of making a deep run in the competition and bringing silverware to the city of Miami.
