Inter Miami is on the verge of being knocked out of the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals as they head into Wednesday`s second leg, needing to overturn the result after losing to LAFC last week.
The first leg defeat in Los Angeles was a close 1-0 loss for Inter Miami, with Nathan Ordaz scoring for LAFC in the 57th minute. This loss was Miami`s first of the season, and their winless streak extended to two games after a 1-1 draw with Toronto FC on Sunday. Despite coach Javier Mascherano playing Lionel Messi for the full 90 minutes in both recent matches, they only managed to secure one point.
LAFC aims for a significant victory to boost their somewhat lackluster season start. They currently hold ninth place in the Western Conference, having lost four of their initial seven MLS games. Coach Steve Cherundolo has been prioritizing the Champions League, as evidenced by squad rotation during Saturday`s game against Houston Dynamo, which they lost 1-0.
Here’s a look at what to expect ahead of this important week in North American club football.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 9
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Stadium — Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Previous Encounter
Just a week ago, LAFC defeated Inter Miami 1-0. LAFC outshot Miami 15 to 10, with four shots on target compared to Miami`s three. Ordaz`s goal before the hour mark provided LAFC with a crucial lead for the second leg.
Inter Miami`s Perspective
Inter Miami`s recent form has dipped after an initially strong season start, failing to win their last two matches. The draw against Toronto prompted reflection from coach Mascherano, who expressed his determination to learn from these results.
Mascherano emphasized the need for consistent team cohesion and focus throughout the game to avoid negative outcomes in the crucial upcoming match. He defended his decision to not rotate the squad, believing that elite players like Messi and Suarez are accustomed to playing frequently. He also questioned the scheduling, noting the disadvantage of having less rest than their opponents before the second leg.
Projected Lineups
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Gonzalo Lujan, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba, Fafa Picault, Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Lionel Messi, Luis Sarez
LAFC: Hugo Lloris, Sergi Palencia, Aaron Long, Eddie Segura, Ryan Hollingshead, Timothy Tillman, Igor Jesus, Marco Delgado, Cengiz Under, Nathan Ordaz, Denis Bouanga
Key Player
Hugo Lloris, LAFC: With Inter Miami expected to attack aggressively, especially with Messi`s impressive form, Hugo Lloris will be crucial for LAFC. Lloris has a history of facing Messi, including notable World Cup encounters. His performance in keeping Messi at bay could be decisive in LAFC`s success.
Key Storyline
Can Inter Miami Recover?: Despite LAFC`s current advantage, Inter Miami still has a chance to turn the tie around. This game is a significant test for coach Mascherano to demonstrate his coaching approach in a must-win scenario. His strategy of playing key players extensively is a gamble that could lead Miami to their first-ever Champions League semifinal.
Match Prediction
Expect a tight match with high stakes. While a clean sheet for LAFC again might be challenging, the game could be very competitive, potentially extending into extra time and penalties. Despite uncertainties, Inter Miami might just edge out a victory, even in a penalty shootout. Predicted score: Inter Miami 1, LAFC 0; Inter Miami wins 4-3 on penalties.
Benedict Kingsley