The Concacaf Champions Cup is heating up as Los Angeles FC prepares to host Inter Miami in the quarterfinal round. Both teams are strong contenders for the title, and this matchup brings them one step closer to the final. Inter Miami, under their new coach Javier Mascherano, remains undefeated across all competitions and looks confident. However, LAFC has been navigating some challenges after significant roster changes in the off-season.
After a recent loss to San Diego FC, LAFC needs a strong comeback at home for this first leg. With away goals being a crucial tiebreaker in this competition, the pressure is on LAFC, especially considering Lionel Messi`s consistent scoring or assist record in every game he`s played this season. Even coming off the bench against Philadelphia Union, Messi immediately found the net, indicating Miami`s strong attacking threat.
This game marks a notable reunion between Messi and LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, their first encounter since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final where Argentina triumphed over France in a penalty shootout. In that memorable match, Messi scored twice, once during regular time and again in extra time, and also converted his penalty kick.
Key Match Details
- Competition: Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals
- Teams: LAFC vs. Inter Miami
- Location: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, California
Messi to Start
Lionel Messi is expected to start this crucial first leg match against LAFC, after beginning on the bench against Philadelphia Union. His presence from the kickoff is a significant boost for Miami as they aim for a positive result in Los Angeles.
Inter Miami Expected Starting XI: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Previous Encounter
The last time these two teams met was just over two years ago in an MLS match in March 2023. Only a handful of players from those starting lineups remain with their respective teams today. In that previous game, Messi provided an assist. While roster changes are significant, key players like Denis Bouanga for LAFC and Messi for Miami are still expected to be pivotal in determining the outcome of this Champions Cup clash. Miami might have a slight advantage in freshness, having rested some players in their recent game against Philadelphia.
Expert Betting Tip
Prediction: Inter Miami to score 2 or more goals (+150): Despite some uncertainty in LAFC`s defense this season, their recent concession of three goals to San Diego FC suggests vulnerabilities. Inter Miami`s potent attack, even if Messi doesn`t start, with players like Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez, poses a significant threat. The depth of Miami`s attacking options makes the odds for them scoring at least two goals appealing.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Transitioning to center back from left back, Allen has been instrumental in strengthening Miami`s defense. His upcoming challenge against the attacking prowess of Denis Bouanga will be a key test, where Allen`s positional intelligence could be decisive in securing a positive first-leg result for Miami.
Match Storyline
Can Miami secure an away goal? In this knockout format, securing an away goal is almost as important as winning the first leg. For LAFC, maintaining a clean sheet at home is crucial. However, given their defensive form and the strength of Miami`s attack, this will be a difficult task. If Miami manages to score and take an away goal advantage back to Fort Lauderdale, it could significantly tilt the tie in their favor.
Match Prediction
LAFC`s integration of many new players early in the season might be a disadvantage. While Miami also has new faces, they appear to have gelled quicker and are in better form. Until a team effectively neutralizes Miami`s attack and Messi`s influence, they will be a formidable opponent. Expect Miami to secure a valuable away victory in this first leg. Predicted score: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
Adrian Whitmore