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Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to Historic Champions Cup Semifinal

Inter Miami overturned a two-goal aggregate deficit against LAFC with a dramatic 3-1 victory, highlighted by Messi's two goals and a decisive penalty kick.

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Messi dribbles during his two-goal display against LAFC.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami in action during the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 match between Los Angeles Football Club and Inter Miami at BMO Stadium on April 2, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
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Overview

  • Inter Miami advanced to the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals for the first time in club history after defeating LAFC 3-2 on aggregate.
  • Lionel Messi played a pivotal role, scoring twice, including an 84th-minute penalty awarded after a VAR review for a handball.
  • Miami faced a steep challenge after LAFC's Aaron Long scored early to extend their aggregate lead to 2-0, leveraging the away-goals rule.
  • Noah Allen's second-half goal and Messi's leadership fueled Miami's comeback, with goalkeeper Oscar Ustari making critical late saves.
  • Inter Miami will face the Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals later this month, following their dramatic victory over Pumas.