Inter Miami triumphed over Los Angeles FC with a 3-1 win on Thursday, progressing to the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup with an aggregate score of 3-2. After trailing in the first leg, Miami faced pressure when Aaron Long scored for LAFC, extending their lead to 2-0 early in the match.
Lionel Messi responded with a stunning long-range goal in the 35th minute, reviving Miami’s hopes. Noah Allen scored the second goal from a high pass, pushing Miami closer to their goal.
Although Luis Suárez’s header from a Messi pass was ruled offside, Miami was awarded a penalty in the 84th minute for a handball by Marlon, which Messi calmly converted.
Los Angeles fought back late with attempts from Denis Bouanga and Ryan Hollingshead, but Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made crucial saves to secure the victory.