FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — On a vibrant Tuesday night, Inter Miami showcased their football finesse by defeating Sporting Kansas City 3-1 in the second leg of the first round of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The event was marked by an extraordinary performance from Lionel Messi, who initiated the scoring with a brilliant strike in the 19th minute.
The victory propelled Inter Miami forward with a 4-1 aggregate victory, setting up a face-off against the Jamaica Premier League champions Cavalier FC in the round of 16, scheduled for March 6. Messi had already made his presence felt in the first leg, contributing to Miami’s narrow 1-0 triumph over Kansas City last Wednesday.
Kansas City’s Memo Rodríguez managed to find the back of the net, marking Kansas City’s first goal in 2025. Despite achieving only three first-half shots, Miami displayed exceptional efficiency, converting each attempt, while Kansas City controlled much of the early exchanges with six shots, three of which were on target.
The game saw Messi artfully delivering a through ball to Luis Suárez. Messi then elegantly controlled Suárez’s pass with his chest before blasting it past goalkeeper John Pulskamp into the bottom right corner. Miami’s second goal also bore Messi’s hallmark as he initiated the play, providing a well-timed ball to Jordi Alba, who squared it to Tadeo Allende to score just before halftime.
A crucial error by Kansas City’s Jacob Davis two minutes later resulted in Suárez skillfully bouncing the ball past Pulskamp, adding to Miami’s tally. “Players like Messi and Suárez bring a unique quality,” Kansas City coach Peter Vermes remarked. “Their understanding of critical moments sets them apart on every stage,” he added, reflecting on the challenge of facing such seasoned talents.
The 37-year-old Messi, who played throughout Miami’s initial two matches, was substituted in the 69th minute. Suárez and the experienced Sergio Busquets each contributed 81 minutes on the field. Miami coach Javier Mascherano highlighted the balance in managing veterans’ playtime to maintain their health, while focusing on the impact of youth players, such as 26-year-old Allende. “We have high hopes for our younger squad members,” Mascherano stated, recognizing the potential of integrating fresh talent alongside experienced players.
Kansas City had their share of opportunities, totaling 10 shots with four on target. An apparent equalizer from Dejan Joveljic in the 40th minute was ruled offside. Rodríguez, subbed in at the 58th minute, skillfully scored from outside the penalty area five minutes later.
Kansas City remains in pursuit of their first win in 2025, amidst ongoing adjustments following notable offseason changes.
Ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup scheduled for June, the illustrious trophy was proudly showcased at Chase Stadium. Inter Miami will be joining elite clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City in a 32-team expanded tournament format across 11 U.S. cities. “It’s an honor to present the trophy here,” expressed Manolo Zubiria, World Cup chief tournament officer. With high anticipation, Inter Miami is set to start their campaign on June 14 against Egypt’s Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Dolphins’ impressive 65,000-seat facility.
