The Concacaf Champions Cup is heating up as Los Angeles FC prepares to host Inter Miami in the quarterfinals. Both teams are strong contenders for the title, and this match brings them closer to the final. Inter Miami, under their new coach Javier Mascherano, remains undefeated, while LAFC is adjusting after significant roster changes in the off-season.
After a loss to San Diego FC, LAFC needs a strong home performance in this first leg. Away goals count as a tiebreaker, adding pressure. Lionel Messi has been consistently scoring or assisting for Miami, making it likely they will score in Los Angeles, which puts pressure on LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo.
This game marks the first time Messi will play against LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout. In that final, Messi scored twice and also in the shootout.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Location: BMO Stadium — Los Angeles, California
Messi to Start
Lionel Messi will start this match after being on the bench against the Philadelphia Union. Despite scoring as a substitute in that game, he will now lead Miami from the beginning in this crucial first leg in Los Angeles.
Inter Miami starting XI: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Previous Encounter
This is their first match in over two years, with their last meeting in MLS in March 2023. Only a few players from those starting lineups are still with their respective teams. Messi provided an assist in their last game. Denis Bouanga and Messi are expected to be key players in this upcoming clash. Miami had the advantage of resting players in their match against Philadelphia Union, which could be beneficial for this game.
Expert Betting Tip
Inter Miami to score 2+ goals (+150): LAFC`s defense has been inconsistent this season. After conceding three goals to San Diego FC, betting on Miami to score at least two goals is reasonable. Even if Messi doesn`t start, players like Tadeo Allende have been scoring for Miami, and Luis Suarez is a strong attacking threat. Miami`s strong attack makes this bet appealing.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Allen, transitioning to center back from left back, has been vital to Miami`s improved defense. Facing Bouanga will be a tough test, but Allen`s positional awareness could be key to Miami`s success in this first leg.
Key Match Storyline
Can Miami score an away goal? In this knockout tournament, securing an away goal is crucial. LAFC needs to prevent Miami from scoring at home. Given LAFC`s defensive performance, this will be challenging against Miami`s attack. If Miami gets an away goal advantage, it could be decisive for the tie.
Match Prediction
Playing these matches early in the season is challenging for LAFC as they integrate many new players. While Miami also has new players, they appear to be in better form. Until a team can stop Miami and Messi`s goal contributions, they will be hard to beat. Miami is predicted to secure a significant away win. Prediction: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
Dominic Ashworth