With Messi back, Inter Miami look to rewrite the script
Fully fit again, the Argentine star looks to guide his team into the semifinals, a step they fell short of last season.
Inter Miami face their most important match of the season this Wednesday at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, where they take on LAFC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. It’s a high-stakes rematch for the MLS side, who fell just short of the semifinals last year. Now, with Javier Mascherano on the sidelines and Lionel Messi back on the pitch, they aim to change the story.
Miami ready for LA
Messi has fully recovered from the muscle injury that sidelined him during the last international window, and returned to action this past weekend with a goal against Philadelphia Union. Now, he’s ready to face LAFC on the road – a city and stadium that’s already familiar territory.
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has visited Los Angeles twice – once to face LAFC, once against LA Galaxy – and made an impact both times. His record includes a win and a draw, as well as two assists and a goal.
Messi the Miami difference-maker
Just having Messi on the pitch may tip the scales in Inter Miami’s favor. His influence in high-pressure matches is well known, and his presence alone has the potential to transform the tone and confidence of his team.
Last season, Messi missed the home leg of the quarterfinals against Monterrey due to injury. Though he returned for the second leg, his limited impact couldn’t prevent Miami’s elimination. That absence in the opening match proved costly.
This time, with Messi available from the start, Miami will look to seize the advantage early – and take a big step toward the semifinals of a tournament they’re desperate to conquer.
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