Inter Miami CF staged an incredible comeback in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals, ultimately defeating LAFC 3-1 in a dramatic Leg 2 matchup. The winning goal was scored by Lionel Messi, who also assisted on another as he helped his team come from behind to claim a stunning 3-2 aggregate victory.
In the first half, Inter Miami found themselves down after a goal from Aaron Long, but they quickly regained composure and started to dominate possession. A rare mistake from LAFC allowed Miami’s captain to score the opening goal, which was followed by assists from Noah Allen and Messi in the second half.
Despite the high level of intensity and skill on display, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano admitted that he found the pace to be too much at times. “The level of this game was too high because we faced a team that plays really well,” he said. “We had to come back and it never is easy when you have to come back and then hold the game.”
Mascherano credited his team’s ability to believe in themselves, even after being down by two goals. “This is why this sport is so beautiful,” he said. “I want to thank the players for their effort, for dealing with adversity and believing they could turn it around.”
The win sets up a highly anticipated semifinal matchup against Vancouver Whitecaps FC, who eliminated Pumas UNAM in dramatic fashion.
“This was our goal since the beginning of the year,” said Noah Allen on the postgame broadcast. “We just showed our quality and togetherness when we have that, we can win the whole tournament.”
Source: https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/lionel-messi-inter-miami-deliver-lafc-heartbreak-in-instant-ccc-classic