Argentine football legend Lionel Messi turned on time as he guided the Herons to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner dribbled past LAFC defenders and scored twice to seal Miami's victory at the Chase Stadium.
Inter Miami entered the fixture trailing 1-0 from the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Herons ensured they scored more goals in their home ground to win on aggregate.
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Messi's magic moves Miami to the semi-finals of CONCACAF Champions Cup
Inter Miami had a nightmarish start at Chase Stadium. LAFC took an early lead as Long netted a goal in the 9th minute. Just when all hopes seemed shattered, it was the magical man himself who took matters into his own hands. Messi scored the opener for the Herons in the 35th minute. Messi foxed LAFC defenders right at the edge of the box and thundered a left-footed strike on the top corner.
Lionel Messi then went on to resurrect the ghosts of the past, especially for LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. In the 84th minute, Messi scored a penalty kick against the goalkeeper which was reminiscent of his two goals against the same keeper in the FIFA World Cup finals.
Before these two goal contributions, Messi was denied a free kick and an assist via controversial on-field decisions. However, Messi's other exploits were enough to help Miami claim victory by 3-1.
Miami to face Vancouver in the semis
The Supporters Shield holders from MLS will face Canadian club Vancouver Whitecaps FC across two-legged fixtures. The Herons are in pursuit of winning their first continental cup with Lionel Messi.
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