Inter Miami CF has made history, securing a spot in the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup CCC for the first time in the clubs short yet impactful history. This remarkable achievement follows a thrilling 31 comeback win over Los Angeles Football Club LAFC in the quarterfinals, which saw Lionel Messis leadership on display, scoring two crucial goals, including a penalty that secured the aggregate victory.
A Game of Resilience
The match, played on April 10, 2025, at Chase Stadium, was a nailbiting affair. Inter Miami entered the second leg of the quarterfinals at a disadvantage after a 11 draw in LA, making the stakes even higher. Despite conceding an early goal in the fifth minute, Miamis resolve never wavered. Their turnaround began in the 61st minute, when midfielder Redondo, aided by an excellent cross from Allen, leveled the aggregate score at 22.
As the match progressed, it became a battle of nerves. LAFC fought hard to hold onto their lead, but Inter Miami kept pressing. Messis calm and composed penalty in the 84th minute, awarded after a handball in the box, ultimately gave the home side a 31 advantage, edging them ahead 32 on aggregate.
Messis Impact
Lionel Messi, as expected, was pivotal. His brace in this game brought his tally to five goals in the CCC so far and eight for the season. The Argentine legends influence was clear, not just through his scoring but also in his leadership on the field, guiding his teammates through the highs and lows of the match.
Coach Javier Mascherano, reflecting on the victory, credited the teams spirit, emphasizing that belief and determination were key. We wanted more and we ended up achieving it, said Mascherano. The reality is that for a comeback like this, luck often has to be on your sideand it was. But thats also what this sport is about.
Historic Firsts for Inter Miami
This victory marks a major milestone for the club, which has only been in existence since 2020. Advancing to the semifinals of a prestigious international competition like the Concacaf Champions Cup is no small feat. Inter Miami is now in uncharted territory, and they will face either Pumas UNAM or Vancouver Whitecaps in the next round.
This progression in the CCC further elevates the clubs status in Major League Soccer MLS and beyond, and it shows the growing influence of Inter Miami in both domestic and international competitions. The confidence gained from this performance could prove invaluable as they continue to build momentum in both the CCC and MLS.
Rescheduled MLS Fixture: FC Dallas Clash
Due to their success in the CCC, Inter Miamis MLS match against FC Dallas has been rescheduled. Initially set for April 26, it will now be played on Sunday, April 27, at 5 p.m. ET. The rescheduling comes as the team prepares for their next chapter in the Champions Cup, with the semifinals beginning with the first leg against Vancouver Whitecaps or Pumas UNAM. The new date gives Miami a slight breather before they return to MLS action, aiming to maintain their domestic form.
For fans, the rescheduled match presents another opportunity to witness the team in action as they chase their firstever CCC trophy while also contending for supremacy in the MLS regular season.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Inter Miamis road to glory is not without its hurdles. After the rescheduled clash with FC Dallas, they will travel to Vancouver April 24 for the first leg of their Champions Cup semifinal. A trip to BC Place will be their first challenge in the series, but they are no strangers to adversity. Their ability to overcome LAFC will give them a boost of confidence as they prepare to face one of Mexicos top teams or another formidable MLS side in the semifinals.
The Future is Bright
As Inter Miami CF continues to grow both in stature and success, this historic moment in the Concacaf Champions Cup offers a glimpse of a bright future. With the everpresent influence of Messi, combined with a team that now believes in its ability to compete at the highest level, the 2025 season is shaping up to be a landmark year for the club. Their performance in both the Champions Cup and MLS shows that they are a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
With more eyes on them than ever before, Inter Miami CF has established itself as a genuine contender for not only domestic success but continental glory as well. The team, the city, and its fans are ready for what promises to be an unforgettable journey.